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Canada's great, shareable storiesSun, 02 Aug 2015 22:26:32 +0000enhourly1http://wordpress.com/http://1.gravatar.com/blavatar/15edae77ebfa450ee5bb897103fdef31?s=96&d=http%3A%2F%2Fs2.wp.com%2Fi%2Fbuttonw-com.png » Queen Elizabeth IIhttp://o.canada.com
Britannia fit for and christened by Queenhttp://o.canada.com/travel/ports-and-bows/596859
http://o.canada.com/travel/ports-and-bows/596859#commentsWed, 11 Mar 2015 07:00:44 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=596859]]>She is fit for a queen so it was fitting that the Queen herself, accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, yesterday officially named and is now the Godmother to British Line P&O Cruises new Britannia. The sparkling ceremony took place at the Ocean Pier in Southampton, home for Britannia this summer while she sails the Mediterranean.

Carrying 3,600 passengers, she is now the queen and flagship of the P&O fleet.

When the champagne broke over the hull of the ship Queen Elizabeth II must have felt a little nostalgic as

The new Godmother of the new ship Britannia

the Royal Yacht Britannia served the Queen from 1954 to 1997.

From her description, the cruise ship Britannia sounds much like Regal Princess and Royal Princess with 15 passenger decks, 13 bars and a multitude of places to eat, a three-tier atrium, a large theatre, four swimming pools, a spa, extensive children’s areas, a gym, a library, shops and a sports arena.

Brand restaurants and chefs like Mary Berry, Marco Pierre White and James Martin, all of whom we are not as familiar with on this side of the Atlantic, will be guesting in the cooking school.

If the Atlantic is too expensive to cross to sail on her in the summer, just wait. Britannia is going to be based in Barbados for the winter so there’ll be plenty of time to get that British Commonwealth-United Kingdom feeling if you desire.

]]>http://o.canada.com/travel/ports-and-bows/596859/feed0Britannia ceremonyphilreimerThe new Godmother of the new ship BritanniaCruise news and views you can usehttp://o.canada.com/travel/ports-and-bows/thursday
http://o.canada.com/travel/ports-and-bows/thursday#commentsThu, 05 Mar 2015 08:00:30 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=595196]]>A full slate this week…

One cruise line is sold and expanding, another is heading to the United Kingdom.

The sister ship to the ground-breaking Quantum of the Seas will start sailing in Europe next month.

The 4,180-passenger ship is having the final touches added and will be undergoing a series of tests and sea trials before arriving in Southampton to start her season in the Mediterranean. After that, across the pond to Cape Liberty, New Jersey in the fall for the 2015-16 Caribbean winter season.

——–

To give you an idea just how popular San Juan is becoming, on February 25 the number of cruise

San Juan, the most popular port — and place — in Puerto Rico

passengers arriving on the same day climbed to 17,847. That topped the old record by about 2,000.

The most I’ve ever seen in one port was seven and, as I recall, it was Phillipsburg, St Maarten. Wisely, I shared a taxi to visit the French side of the island early in the morning before most people were finished breakfast aboard the ships.

]]>http://o.canada.com/travel/ports-and-bows/thursday/feed0Splendour of SeasphilreimerSan Juan, the most popular port — and place — in Puerto RicoQueen Elizabeth II will christen P&O's new ship Britannia, on Tuesday in SouthamptonPhotos Feb 19: Top images from around the worldhttp://o.canada.com/sports/photos-feb-19-top-images-from-around-the-world
http://o.canada.com/sports/photos-feb-19-top-images-from-around-the-world#commentsThu, 19 Feb 2015 16:37:00 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=592673]]>The day’s best photos, as selected by editors at Postmedia News, are a stunning collection of the greatest images from around the world.

A man selling food for pigeons sits in a cubicle, near Yeni Cami, in Istanbul, Turkey. (AP Photo/Emrah Gurel)

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II looks at the view out of a window, during a visit to reopen Canada House, following an extensive programme of restoration and refurbishment, in London. Canada House is the official home to the Canadian High Commission in the United Kingdom. The building was first opened in 1925 by King George V. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

A girl wearing a traditional hanbok dress stands at a military fence facing towards North Korea at Imjingak park, south of the Military Demarcation Line and Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating North and South Korea. Ed Jones/AFP/Getty Images

A boy stands on a model of a ram near a temple during celebrations to mark the first day of the Lunar New Year in Hong Kong. Philippe Lopez/AFP/Getty Images

Two polar bear cubs follow their mother as they venture outside their enclosures for the first time since they were born at Ouwehands Zoo in Rhenen, Netherlands. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

An Iraqi woman, who fled her town after the advance of Islamic militants, holds a child at a camp for displaced Iraqis outside Baghdad, Iraq. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim)

An elderly Afghan refugee trims his beard while another plays with his grandson on the outskirts of Islamabad, Pakistan. (AP Photo/Muhammed Muheisen)

A Filipino lion dancer checks his costume as he prepares for a performance in Manila’s Chinatown, Philippines. Chinese New Year peformance will drive misfortunes away and bring good luck. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

A vendor selling goods for the Lunar New Year sits and wait for costumers in the Chinatown area of Bangkok. NICOLAS ASFOURI/AFP/Getty Images

Acrobats perform in the street for the Lunar New Year, in the Chinatown area of Bangkok. NICOLAS ASFOURI/AFP/Getty Images

Performers dance at the 2015 Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade in Hong Kong, Hong Kong. (Photo by Anthony Kwan/Getty Images)

Performers dance at the 2015 Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade in Hong Kong, Hong Kong. The parade featured illuminated floats accompanied by local and international performing groups which entertained both locals and tourists alike on Chinese Lunar New Year. (Photo by Anthony Kwan/Getty Images)

Performers wait for the start of the celebrations of the Chinese Lunar New “Year of the Sheep” in Hong Kong. Philippe Lopez/AFP/Getty Images

Catwalk or Skycats of the Scandinavian Aerobatic Team leave a trail of Indian tri-colour smoke as they perform aerobatics during the second day of the Aero India 2015 at the Yelahanka Airforce Station in Bangalore. Manjunath Kiran/AFP/Getty Images

Kimi Raikkonen of Finland and Ferrari is pulled by technicians to the garage during the 2015 Formula One testing at the Barcelona Catalunya racetrack in Montmelo, Spain, Thursday. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Daniel Ricciardo of Australia and Infiniti Red Bull Racing steers his car during the 2015 Formula One testing at the Barcelona Catalunya racetrack in Montmelo, Spain. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Max Verstappen of Netherlands and Scuderia Toro Rosso steers his car during the 2015 Formula One testing at the Barcelona Catalunya racetrack in Montmelo, Spain. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Joe Gasbarra sits along the icy shore on Lake Michigan, Thursday morning, in Chicago. Temperatures have dipped to as low as -13 in parts of Illinois with wind chills forecast to fall to between 20 and 30 degrees below zero. (AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato)

The sun rises on Lake Michigan as ice forms along the shore in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato)

Two pro-Russian seperatists stop a man holding his arms up in the eastern Ukrainian city of Uglegorsk, 6 kms southwest of Debaltseve. The leaders of Ukraine, Germany, France and Russia on February 19 pledged to try to save a tattered ceasefire in eastern Ukraine despite violations — including the storming of a key town by pro-Russian rebels. VASILY MAXIMOV/AFP/Getty Images

Italian policemen back during clashes with Feyenoord’s fans hurling firecrackers and bottles at the Spanish steps, in downtown Rome, prior to the Europa League soccer match between Roma and Feyenoord. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Italian policemen clash with Feyenoord’s fans at the Spanish steps, in downtown Rome, prior to the Europa League soccer match between Roma and Feyenoord. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

]]>http://o.canada.com/sports/photos-feb-19-top-images-from-around-the-world/feed0HONG KONG-LUNAR-NEW YEARpostmedianews1A man selling food for pigeons sits in a cubicle, near Yeni Cami, in Istanbul, Turkey. (AP Photo/Emrah Gurel)Britain's Queen Elizabeth II looks at the view out of a window, during a visit to reopen Canada House, following an extensive programme of restoration and refurbishment, in London. Canada House is the official home to the Canadian High Commission in the United Kingdom. The building was first opened in 1925 by King George V. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)A girl wearing a traditional hanbok dress stands at a military fence facing towards North Korea at Imjingak park, south of the Military Demarcation Line and Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating North and South Korea. Ed Jones/AFP/Getty ImagesA boy stands on a model of a ram near a temple during celebrations to mark the first day of the Lunar New Year in Hong Kong. Philippe Lopez/AFP/Getty ImagesTwo polar bear cubs follow their mother as they venture outside their enclosures for the first time since they were born at Ouwehands Zoo in Rhenen, Netherlands. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)An Iraqi woman, who fled her town after the advance of Islamic militants, holds a child at a camp for displaced Iraqis outside Baghdad, Iraq. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim)An elderly Afghan refugee trims his beard while another plays with his grandson on the outskirts of Islamabad, Pakistan. (AP Photo/Muhammed Muheisen)Nigerian marines atten the commissioning ceremony of the "NNS Centenary", an offshore patrol vessel built by Chinese Shipbuilding and Industry Corporation (CSIC) for Nigerian Navy, in Lagos. PIUS UTOMI EKPEI/AFP/Getty ImagesA Filipino lion dancer checks his costume as he prepares for a performance in Manila's Chinatown, Philippines. Chinese New Year peformance will drive misfortunes away and bring good luck. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)A vendor selling goods for the Lunar New Year sits and wait for costumers in the Chinatown area of Bangkok. NICOLAS ASFOURI/AFP/Getty ImagesAcrobats perform in the street for the Lunar New Year, in the Chinatown area of Bangkok. NICOLAS ASFOURI/AFP/Getty ImagesPerformers dance at the 2015 Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade in Hong Kong, Hong Kong. (Photo by Anthony Kwan/Getty Images)Performers dance at the 2015 Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade in Hong Kong, Hong Kong. The parade featured illuminated floats accompanied by local and international performing groups which entertained both locals and tourists alike on Chinese Lunar New Year. (Photo by Anthony Kwan/Getty Images)Performers wait for the start of the celebrations of the Chinese Lunar New "Year of the Sheep" in Hong Kong. Philippe Lopez/AFP/Getty ImagesCatwalk or Skycats of the Scandinavian Aerobatic Team leave a trail of Indian tri-colour smoke as they perform aerobatics during the second day of the Aero India 2015 at the Yelahanka Airforce Station in Bangalore. Manjunath Kiran/AFP/Getty ImagesKimi Raikkonen of Finland and Ferrari is pulled by technicians to the garage during the 2015 Formula One testing at the Barcelona Catalunya racetrack in Montmelo, Spain, Thursday. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)Daniel Ricciardo of Australia and Infiniti Red Bull Racing steers his car during the 2015 Formula One testing at the Barcelona Catalunya racetrack in Montmelo, Spain. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)Max Verstappen of Netherlands and Scuderia Toro Rosso steers his car during the 2015 Formula One testing at the Barcelona Catalunya racetrack in Montmelo, Spain. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)Joe Gasbarra sits along the icy shore on Lake Michigan, Thursday morning, in Chicago. Temperatures have dipped to as low as -13 in parts of Illinois with wind chills forecast to fall to between 20 and 30 degrees below zero. (AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato)The sun rises on Lake Michigan as ice forms along the shore in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato)Two pro-Russian seperatists stop a man holding his arms up in the eastern Ukrainian city of Uglegorsk, 6 kms southwest of Debaltseve. The leaders of Ukraine, Germany, France and Russia on February 19 pledged to try to save a tattered ceasefire in eastern Ukraine despite violations -- including the storming of a key town by pro-Russian rebels. VASILY MAXIMOV/AFP/Getty ImagesItalian policemen back during clashes with Feyenoord's fans hurling firecrackers and bottles at the Spanish steps, in downtown Rome, prior to the Europa League soccer match between Roma and Feyenoord. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)Italian policemen clash with Feyenoord's fans at the Spanish steps, in downtown Rome, prior to the Europa League soccer match between Roma and Feyenoord. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)U.S. lawsuit claims Prince Andrew slept with underage ‘sex slave’http://o.canada.com/news/jeffrey-epstein-prince-andrew-sex-slaves-571233
http://o.canada.com/news/jeffrey-epstein-prince-andrew-sex-slaves-571233#commentsFri, 02 Jan 2015 18:13:56 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=571233]]>A U.S. lawsuit against investment banker Jeffrey Epstein has ensnared a prominent member of the British Royal Family in a scandal involving allegations of sexual slavery.

Epstein, a disgraced hedge fund mogul who is registered as a sex offender, is being sued by women who say he loaned them out as sex slaves to his rich and powerful friends more than a decade ago, including Prince Andrew. According to The Guardian, the Duke of York was named in a motion by an anonymous woman in a Florida court this week as part of proceedings against Epstein. The woman alleges that between 1999 and 2002, while she was still underage, she was “forced to have sexual relations with this prince” in New York, London and on a Caribbean island owned by Epstein.

Prince Andrew is Queen Elizabeth’s third child and younger brother to Prince Charles, placing him fifth in the line of succession to the British throne.

Buckingham Palace denies any wrongdoing by the prince, telling the BBC it would not comment in detail on a U.S. lawsuit “to which the Duke of York is not a party.”

“However, for the avoidance of doubt, any suggestion of impropriety with under age minors is categorically untrue,” a spokesperson said.

The lawsuit, first reported by Politico, alleges that Epstein used several sex slaves as a way to ingratiate himself with other powerful men, including numerous prominent American politicians, powerful business executives and foreign leaders. He also allegedly required his victims to provide detailed descriptions of their encounters with these men “so that he could potentially blackmail them,” the court filing said.

The lawsuit comes in the wake of Epstein’s 2008 guilty plea for soliciting a minor for prostitution, for which he served 13 months of an 18-month sentence. Two women who filed the lawsuit say their rights were violated by the plea deal, and are now joined by two additional women identified as Jane Doe 3 and Jane Doe 4 seeking redress from the billionaire.

Prince Andrew’s association with Epstein has previously embarrassed the Royal Family. In 2010, the two were photographed together after the financier had finished serving his prison sentence. The royal subsequently stepped down as a U.K. trade envoy, a role he had held for a decade.

She said it will take time to heal divisions in Scotland, where a referendum was held this year on whether to remain part of Britain, and praised progress resolving the conflict in Northern Ireland. Elizabeth cited the “Christmas truce” in 1914 as an example to be remembered.

“Something remarkable did happen that Christmas, exactly 100 years ago today,” she said. “Without any instruction or command, the shooting stopped and German and British soldiers met in No Man’s Land. Photographs were taken and gifts exchanged. It was a Christmas truce.”

She said German forces sang “Silent Night” so that it could be heard on the British side of the front line.

Members of Britain’s royal family arrive to attend their traditional Christmas Day church service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, England, Thursday, Dec. 25, 2014. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

“That carol is still much-loved today, a legacy of the Christmas truce, and a reminder to us all that even in the unlikeliest of places hope can still be found,” the queen said before wishing everyone a happy Christmas.

The queen writes her own Christmas speech, which is pre-recorded and televised in many parts of the world. She made her first Christmas broadcast on radio in 1952.

The queen and her close family celebrated Christmas at the sprawling Sandringham estate in Norfolk.

The royals attended a church service Christmas morning before a gala lunch.

Prince William and his pregnant wife Kate were present, but their toddler son, Prince George, didn’t go to church.

Kate told one person in the crowd she didn’t bring one-year-old George because he would have made too much noise.

Prince Charles’ wife Camilla also didn’t attend because of a painful back injury suffered earlier this month, officials said.

Britain’s Prince William, left, and his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge arrive to attend the British royal family’s traditional Christmas Day church service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, England, Thursday, Dec. 25, 2014. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

The queen arrived by car while the other royals walked from her estate to the village church.

Hundreds of well-wishers lined the route to the church to exchange Christmas greetings with the royals.

Some shouted with glee as Prince Harry walked by. One visitor from Spain told reporters she had asked Harry to marry her.

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby cancelled his Christmas sermon because of a severe cold.

In a statement he expressed “great regret” about his inability to preach his planned sermon about the true meaning of Christmas.

Church officials said the sermon at Canterbury Cathedral would instead be delivered by the Dean of Canterbury Robert Willis.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/queen-elizabeth-ii-ebola-medical-workers-in-christmas-speech/feed0Queen Elizabeth II Delivers Her Christmas 2014 Television Broadcast To The CommonwealththeassociatedpresscanadaMembers of Britain's royal family arrive to attend their traditional Christmas Day church service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, England, Thursday, Dec. 25, 2014. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)Britain's Prince William, left, and his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge arrive to attend the British royal family's traditional Christmas Day church service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, England, Thursday, Dec. 25, 2014. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)Magic mushrooms found at the Queen’s residencehttp://o.canada.com/news/magic-mushrooms-found-at-the-queens-residence
http://o.canada.com/news/magic-mushrooms-found-at-the-queens-residence#commentsFri, 12 Dec 2014 13:45:14 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=561071]]>A psychedelic mushroom was found on Buckingham Palace grounds this week, but it wasn’t Queen Elizabeth II, or even Prince Harry, who planted them.

Amanita muscaria, the mushroom in question, has hallucinogenic properties. It was found growing wild in the palace’s massive grounds. The sweeping gardens include many species of flora, including many kinds of mushrooms.

The magic mushrooms can be red or orange with dots, and some of them look like they’re picked from a Super Mario game. Amanita muscaria has long been know to produce psychedelic effects, and has historically been associated with various rituals. Some people even suggest early Christians used them in services.

Buckingham Palace is the centre of Royal life in London.

But the Queen and the Royal Family won’t be taking an accidental ride on a yellow submarine — officials assured the Associated Press that the kitchens do not serve anything from the garden.

The mushrooms can also be poisonous to humans, so perhaps it’s a good thing they weren’t discovered decades ago, when The Beatles have openly admitted to smoking pot in Buckingham Palace.

The London palace is the Queen’s official residence in that city, though she has many castles all over the British Isles.

— with files from the Associated Press

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/magic-mushrooms-found-at-the-queens-residence/feed1FRANCE-FLY AGARICashleycsanadyBuckingham Palace is the centre of Royal life in London. Coyne: Where are the great leaders of today?http://o.canada.com/news/national/coyne-where-are-the-great-leaders-of-today
http://o.canada.com/news/national/coyne-where-are-the-great-leaders-of-today#commentsSat, 22 Nov 2014 01:55:08 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=549266]]>Unhappy the land that has no heroes.No. Unhappy the land that has need of heroes.
— Brecht, The Life of Galileo

Looking at the “class picture” of the leaders at the recent meeting of the G20, a student of history might be inclined to despair. What became of leaders past, that we should now be governed by such minnows? How could we have gone from Churchill to David Cameron? From De Gaulle to Francois Hollande? From Roosevelt to Barack Obama? From Macdonald and Laurier to Stephen Harper? Where’s the vision? Where’s the daring? Where’s the leadership?

It is a familiar lament. Writing in the current issue of Policy magazine, the political consultant Robin Sears compares the current crop of leaders with those of mid-century, for whom it was typical “to fight for improbable ideas, to spend years overcoming resistance to them, to endure the sneers of defeated opponents and to be vindicated for their courage.” By contrast, today’s leaders “tremble at the prospect of major risk-taking, long-term thinking or strategic gambles.”

Is it true? Are today’s political leaders as small as they seem, compared to their forebears? Is greatness a thing of the past? One plausible answer: yes. There is no historic necessity for everything to be in the same state at all times. It is possible for things to get better, and it is possible for them to get worse. It is no answer to say, “People said the same thing a hundred years ago.” They might have been wrong. Were they around today, they might well say, “We’d no idea how much worse things could get.”

Prime Minister Stephen Harper and his wife Laureen. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

Alternate plausible answer: no. Perhaps past leaders benefited from a kind of cult worship that is impossible in today’s world, with its intrusive media, declining deference and so on. Were they around today, perhaps we would treat them with the same scorn. Maybe it is only the passage of time that has enlarged them. Maybe some of today’s nobodies will be celebrated by future generations as towering figures, compared to the nobodies then in power.

Or not. One popular explanation, in the “there were giants then” vein, might be called the Norma Desmond theory. (“I am big,” the faded movie queen protests in Sunset Boulevard. “It’s the pictures that got small.”) The leaders of the past, on this view, were given great material to work with: Depression, World War, and the like, far beyond our trivial modern problems. Bill Clinton used to complain that he never got to govern in wartime. How was he supposed to take his place in history as a great president?

There’s some truth in this — though it is surely worth noting that they rose to those challenges, spectacularly. Had they not, we would hardly remember them as great. The relative insignificance of today’s leaders, then, may in fact be a consequence of their predecessors’ greatness: there’s simply less left for them to do. Tommy Douglas was a great man, for instance — voted “Greatest Canadian” in a CBC contest — but you can’t invent medicare twice. So, too, the declining relative importance of the state will naturally leave less room for conspicuous acts of political leadership, like Eisenhower’s Interstate Highway System. In their place we may have been given great non-political leaders like Steve Jobs.

A file photo of former NDP leader Tommy Douglas. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Schwarz

Fine. Politics does not exist, or should not, just as a canvas for leaders to paint on. People like me are always banging on about the need for a politics of “big ideas,” but there is no point in doing big things just for the sake of doing them, or in self-conscious emulation of the past. Big ideas can be terrible ideas. Stalin had a big idea; Mao had 20.

My own pet explanation for the seeming smallness of today’s leaders is inverse-Norma Desmond: the problem is the pictures got big. Looking back at the great colossi of history, one is constantly struck by how small a world they bestrode. The England of Queen Elizabeth, for example, the England of Shakespeare, Raleigh and Drake, had a population of less than four million, barely a tenth of our own. By the time of the Civil Wars, when titans like Charles I and Cromwell were roaming about, it had risen to 5.3 million — still less than that of the Greater Toronto Area.

Yet at the time the stakes must have seemed enormous, as if the world was in play; they could not have known how much larger the world would become. Had they been aware of their own relative insignificance — a civil war fought over Mississauga and East Gwillimbury seems rather less world-historic, somehow — they mightn’t have bothered. But then a measure of self-importance, even self-delusion, is essential to any heroic endeavour. Were any of us to stop to consider how trivial our lives are in the grand scheme of things, we might not bother.

Fortunately, we do not. Part of the greatness we attribute to the leaders who went before us is that their efforts resulted in, well, us: liberal, democratic, the natural endpoint of history. Viewed from that perspective, the path that led us here glows with significance, and those who opened that path seem accordingly of enormous consequence. But it only seems that way if you start from the assumption that we, and the civilization we have created, are of some historic import. People hundreds of years from now may not agree. Indeed, they may have forgotten all about us.

It is the same trap into which “intelligent design” theorists fall. How, they ask, could such a miracle as man have been created, with all of the many improbable coincidences that were required to produce this infinitely complex bundle of DNA, unless it had been somehow intended? And the cosmos yawn: who the hell is man?

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge are seen as they welcome the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Kate, Duchess of Cambridge sits with Mary Tan the wife of the president of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam at the an hotel in London, on the first of a four-day state visit to Britain. (AP Photo/Anthony Devlin, Pool)

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge greet the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam and his wife Mary Chee Bee Kiang at the Royal Garden Hotel on the first of a four day state visit to the UK on October 21, 2014 in London, England. (Photo by Anthony Devlin – WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II (L) and Britain’s Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh (front R) stand with Singapore’s President Tony Tan Keng Yam (front 2L) and his wife Mary (front 2R), as British Prime Minister David Cameron (back 4R), Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond (3R) and Home Secretary Theresa May (2R) stand by during the ceremonial welcome ceremony for the Singaporean president at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEAL

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge are seen as they welcome the President of Singapore. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Singapore’s President Tony Tan Keng Yam (C) reviews an honour guard accompanied by Britain’s Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh (back 2R) during the ceremonial welcome ceremony for the Singaporean president at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade in central London on October 21, 2014. Singapore’s President Tony Tan Keng Yam began the first full day of engagements in the first state visit by a Singaporean president to Britain. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEAL

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (L), takes her seat in a State Carriage with her husband Britain’s Prince William, Duke of Cambridge (R), for the carriage procession to Buckingham Palace as part of the ceremonial welcome ceremony for Singapore’s President Tony Tan Keng Yam. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEAL

Queen Elizabeth II chats to Prime Minister David Cameron as she welcomes the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Prime Minister David Cameron during the official welcome for the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge are seen as they welcome the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam (not seen) at the Royal Garden Hotel. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Queen Elizabeth II looks on as she welcomes the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam (not seen) at Horseguards. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

British Prime Minister David Cameron (2L), Home Secretary Theresa May (C) and Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond (2R) arrive to attend the ceremonial welcome ceremony for Singapore’s President Tony Tan Keng Yam at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade in central London. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEAL

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II (L) shakes hands with British Prime Minister David Cameron (C) as Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond (3R) and Home Secretary Theresa May (2R) stand by as they attend the ceremonial welcome ceremony for Singapore’s President Tony Tan Keng Yam at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade in central London on October 21, 2014. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEAL

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge arrive at Buckingham Palace during a state visit by the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam (Photo by Carl Court – WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Britain’s Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh (L) looks on as Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II (2L) shakes hands with Home Secretary Theresa May (3R) with British Prime Minister David Cameron (3L) and Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond (C) standing by as they attend the ceremonial welcome ceremony for Singapore’s President Tony Tan Keng Yam at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade in central London on October 21, 2014. Singapore’s President Tony Tan Keng Yam began the first full day of engagements in the first state visit by a Singaporean president to Britain. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEAL

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/photos-kate-and-william-greet-president-of-singapore/feed2BRITAIN-SINGAPORE-ROYALS-DIPLOMACY.jpgcathyboucekCatherine, Duchess of Cambridge arrives at Buckingham Palace. (Photo by Carl Court - WPA Pool/Getty Images)Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge are seen as they welcome the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)Kate, Duchess of Cambridge sits with Mary Tan the wife of the president of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam at the an hotel in London, on the first of a four-day state visit to Britain. (AP Photo/Anthony Devlin, Pool)Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam and his wife Mary Chee Bee Kiang pose for a photo. (Photo by Anthony Devlin - WPA Pool/Getty Images)Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge greet the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam and his wife Mary Chee Bee Kiang at the Royal Garden Hotel on the first of a four day state visit to the UK on October 21, 2014 in London, England. (Photo by Anthony Devlin - WPA Pool/Getty Images)Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (L) and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge (R) attend the ceremonial welcome ceremony for Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEALBritain's Queen Elizabeth II (L) and Britain's Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh (front R) stand with Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam (front 2L) and his wife Mary (front 2R), as British Prime Minister David Cameron (back 4R), Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond (3R) and Home Secretary Theresa May (2R) stand by during the ceremonial welcome ceremony for the Singaporean president at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEALPrince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge are seen as they welcome the President of Singapore. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam (C) reviews an honour guard accompanied by Britain's Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh (back 2R) during the ceremonial welcome ceremony for the Singaporean president at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade in central London on October 21, 2014. Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam began the first full day of engagements in the first state visit by a Singaporean president to Britain. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEALPrince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge (2L) and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (L) attend the ceremonial welcome ceremony for Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEALQueen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh smile as they welcome the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge arrive at Buckingham Palace. (Photo by Carl Court - WPA Pool/Getty Images)Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (L), takes her seat in a State Carriage with her husband Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge (R), for the carriage procession to Buckingham Palace as part of the ceremonial welcome ceremony for Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEALQueen Elizabeth II chats to Prime Minister David Cameron as she welcomes the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)Prime Minister David Cameron during the official welcome for the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge are seen as they welcome the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam (not seen) at the Royal Garden Hotel. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)Queen Elizabeth II looks on as she welcomes the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam (not seen) at Horseguards. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)British Prime Minister David Cameron (2L), Home Secretary Theresa May (C) and Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond (2R) arrive to attend the ceremonial welcome ceremony for Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade in central London. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEALPrince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. (Photo by Anthony Devlin - WPA Pool/Getty Images)Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge greets the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam. (Photo by Anthony Devlin - WPA Pool/Getty Images)Britain's Queen Elizabeth II (L) shakes hands with British Prime Minister David Cameron (C) as Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond (3R) and Home Secretary Theresa May (2R) stand by as they attend the ceremonial welcome ceremony for Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade in central London on October 21, 2014. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEALThe President of Singapore Tony Tan, right, and Britain's Queen Elizabeth II arrive in a horse-drawn carriage. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, Pool)Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge arrive at Buckingham Palace during a state visit by the President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam (Photo by Carl Court - WPA Pool/Getty Images)Britain's Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh (L) looks on as Britain's Queen Elizabeth II (2L) shakes hands with Home Secretary Theresa May (3R) with British Prime Minister David Cameron (3L) and Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond (C) standing by as they attend the ceremonial welcome ceremony for Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam at the start of a state visit at Horse Guards Parade in central London on October 21, 2014. Singapore's President Tony Tan Keng Yam began the first full day of engagements in the first state visit by a Singaporean president to Britain. AFP PHOTO / POOL / LEON NEALQueen Elizabeth sends her first tweethttp://o.canada.com/news/queen-elizabeth-sends-her-first-tweet
http://o.canada.com/news/queen-elizabeth-sends-her-first-tweet#commentsFri, 24 Oct 2014 11:58:36 +0000http://postmediacanadadotcom.wordpress.com/?p=534208]]>Twitter reigns.

Or so says the Queen of the British Empire who tapped out her first 135-character tweet today from the opening of an exhibition at the Science Museum in Central London.

It is a pleasure to open the Information Age exhibition today at the @ScienceMuseum and I hope people will enjoy visiting. Elizabeth R.

Smith, who plays the imperious Dowager Countess of Grantham on “Downton Abbey,” was made a member of the Order of the Companions of Honour, Friday, in recognition of her six decades in theatre, cinema and television.

Dame Maggie Smith is made a member of the Order of the Companion of Honour by Queen Elizabeth II. (AP Photo/PA, Dominic Lipinski)

The award is limited to 65 living people “of distinction.” Other members include physicist Stephen Hawking, actor Ian McKellen and artist David Hockney.

The 79-year-old actress has won two Academy Awards, for “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” and “California Suite.”

She is currently filming “The Lady in the Van,” reprising her stage role as a homeless eccentric who parked for years on the driveway of playwright Alan Bennett.

Dame Maggie Smith is made a member of the Order of the Companion of Honour by Queen Elizabeth II during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, England, Friday Oct. 17, 2014. (AP Photo/PA, Dominic Lipinski)

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/queen-elizabeth-honours-downton-abbeys-maggie-smith/feed0TV Downton AbbeytheassociatedpresscanadaDame Maggie Smith is made a member of the Order of the Companion of Honour by Queen Elizabeth II. (AP Photo/PA, Dominic Lipinski) UNITED KINGDOM OUT NO SALES NO ARCHIVEDame Maggie Smith is made a member of the Order of the Companion of Honour by Queen Elizabeth II during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, England, Friday Oct. 17, 2014. (AP Photo/PA, Dominic Lipinski) Beg your pardon, Your Highness: David Cameron apologizes for saying Queen ‘purred’ on phonehttp://o.canada.com/news/beg-your-pardon-your-highness-david-cameron-apologizes-for-saying-queen-purred-on-phone
http://o.canada.com/news/beg-your-pardon-your-highness-david-cameron-apologizes-for-saying-queen-purred-on-phone#commentsThu, 25 Sep 2014 15:33:13 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=519287]]>Prime Minister David Cameron is begging the Queen’s forgiveness after he was caught on camera saying she “purred” over the Scottish referendum results.

Prime ministers in the United Kingdom have long consulted the monarchy on matters of national interest, from wars to the recent separatist referendum in Scotland. But it is age-old protocol that those chats are so far off the record even TMZ couldn’t track down a grainy recording or video.

Cameron was so happy after 55 per cent of Scots rejected independence that he bragged about the win to U.S. billionaire Michael Bloomberg. The PM added that giving Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the news was really really fun.

Had he left it there, he would not be kissing the velvety hem of the Queen’s long green cape for forgiveness. But he told Bloomberg the Queen “purred” at the news, and as these things do, it went viral.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, arrive for the Knights of the Thistle service in Ediburgh. (Chris Watt, Getty Images.)

On Wednesday, Cameron apologized from New York City, where he was taped Tuesday chatting with Bloomberg. He said he’s “very embarrassed” and would be calling the Queen personally to apologize.

“Look, I’m very embarrassed by this,” Cameron said. “I’m extremely sorry about it. It was a private conversation, but clearly a private conversation that I shouldn’t have had and won’t have again.”

The Queen meets weekly with the prime minister, regardless of party, and she is not supposed to express political views. Had Scotland voted yes she would have remained its monarch, so any favour over the result one way or another could be inappropriate.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/beg-your-pardon-your-highness-david-cameron-apologizes-for-saying-queen-purred-on-phone/feed0David-Cameron.jpgashleycsanadyQueen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, arrive for the service. Chris Watt, Getty Images.Blockbuster book set to reveal secrets of Princess Diana, Prince Charles and Camillahttp://o.canada.com/news/world/blockbuster-book-set-to-reveal-secrets-of-princess-diana-prince-charles-and-camilla
http://o.canada.com/news/world/blockbuster-book-set-to-reveal-secrets-of-princess-diana-prince-charles-and-camilla#commentsWed, 06 Aug 2014 15:18:55 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=495444]]>Prince Charles is said to be livid about a tell-all book that is expected to reveal new information about the bitter breakup of his marriage to Diana, Princess of Wales and his relationship with Camilla Parker Bowles.

Charles, Prince of Wales, kisses the hand of his bride, Lady Diana Spencer, on the balcony of Buckingham Palace when they appeared before a huge crowd, on July 29, 1981, after their wedding in St Paul’s Cathedral. Archive, AFP/Getty Images.

There is speculation that the author, Queen Elizabeth‘s former press secretary and respected royal commentator Dickie Arbiter, could expose new details about other failed royal marriages as well as the aftermath of the death of the Princess of Wales in a horrific car crash in Paris in 1997.

A file photo shows the wreckage of Princess Diana’s car in the Alma Tunnel of Paris. Pierre Boussel, AFP/Getty Images.

Britain’s Sunday Mirror, quoting an anonymous source, said that “Charles is furious. This man was a trusted friend.”

Prince Charles is reportedly upset about the publication of Dickie Arbiter’s book, set for release this fall. Russell Cheyne, AFP/Getty Images.

The book, On Duty with the Queen: My Time as a Buckingham Palace Press Secretary, is scheduled for release this October. In all likelihood, it probably has several royals a bit nervous, given that Arbiter was a part of palace life from 1988-2000. During that time, he sailed on the Royal Yacht Britannia, accompanied royals overseas and became “one of Princess Diana’s most trusted confidantes,” according to promotional info about the book on Amazon.

“Every inch the tight-lipped loyal aide, Arbiter stood by (Prince Charles) during the bitter breakdown of his marriage to Diana and his affair with Camilla Parker-Bowles,” reports the Mirror. “He was also in office when Diana was killed and witnessed the breakdown of two other royal marriages during his turbulent time in office.”

An official portrait of Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips taken one week before their wedding in 1973. The couple divorced in 1992. STF/AFP/Getty Images.

The marriage of Prince Charles’s younger brother, Prince Andrew, and Sarah Ferguson, also failed. The couple separated in 1992 and divorced four years later. AFP/Getty Images.

According to Arbiter’s website, he has had nearly five decades of experience covering royalty in various capacities and “has had unprecedented access to some of the most notable figures of our time.”

Now, Arbiter appears set to re-open old wounds as he sheds light on some of the most difficult chapters in the royal family’s history.

The Prince of Wales and Camilla Parker Bowles sit in the Royal Box in the gardens of Buckingham Palace in 2002. Michael Dunlea, AFP/Getty Images.

Firefightes battle a huge blaze at Windsor Castle in England in 1992. The fire caused extensive damage and injured at least one person. It was this year that Queen Elizabeth famously proclaimed was her annus horribilus. Theirry Saliou, AFP/Getty Images.

“The 73-year-old is set to hang out the Royal Family’s dirty laundry — and be the first ­Buckingham Palace press officer ever to spill the beans on what he witnessed behind closed doors,” reports the Mirror. “Speculation over what lies inside his upcoming biography has sent shock waves through the regal corridors. It is understood officials have been taking legal advice in a desperate attempt to halt its publication.”

Whether the book really does betray the royal family by revealing damaging secrets or is simply a benign memoir that covers old turf is yet to be seen, but either way, the book is certain to be a bestseller.

— Get more Royal news and updates on Twitter @PostmediaRoyals

Britain’s Prince Charles and his bride Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall leave St George’s Chapel in Windsor following the church blessing of their civil wedding ceremony in 2005. Alastair Grant, AFP/Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/blockbuster-book-set-to-reveal-secrets-of-princess-diana-prince-charles-and-camilla/feed0Britain Prince CharlesrdunleyCharles, Prince of Wales, kisses the hand of his bride, Lady Diana Spencer, on the balcony of Buckingham Palace when they appeared before a huge crowd, on July 29, 1981, after their wedding in St Paul's Cathedral. Archive, AFP/Getty Images.The Prince and Princess of Wales watch Indonesian tribal dancers in Yogyakarta, Indoniesia in 1989. Kazuhiro Nogi, AFP/Getty Images.A file photo shows the wreckage of Princess Diana's car in the Alma Tunnel of Paris. Pierre Boussel, AFP/Getty Images.Prince Charles is reportedly upset about the publication of Dickie Arbiter's book, set for release this fall. Russell Cheyne, AFP/Getty Images.An official portrait of Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips taken one week before their wedding in 1973. The couple divorced in 1992. STF/AFP/Getty Images.The marriage of Prince Charles's younger brother, Prince Andrew, and Sarah Ferguson, also failed. AFP/Getty Images.The Prince of Wales and Camilla Parker Bowles sit in the Royal Box in the gardens of Buckingham Palace in 2002. Michael Dunlea, AFP/Getty Images.Firefightes battle a huge blaze at Windsor Castle in England in 1992. The fire caused extensive damage and injured at least one person. It was this year that Queen Elizabeth famously proclaimed was her annus horribilus. Theirry Saliou, AFP/Getty Images.Britain's Prince Charles and his bride Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall leave St George's Chapel in Windsor following the church blessing of their civil wedding ceremony in 2005. Alastair Grant, AFP/Getty Images.Gallery: Royals in Europe mark anniversary of First World Warhttp://o.canada.com/news/world/royals-in-europe-mark-anniversary-of-first-world-war
http://o.canada.com/news/world/royals-in-europe-mark-anniversary-of-first-world-war#commentsMon, 04 Aug 2014 14:23:44 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=494460]]>The royal families of Europe marked the centenary of the First World War on Monday with numerous events.

Prince Harry was in Folkestone, England, where he unveiled a memorial arch.

“The arch is at the top of a hill leading down to the harbour where boats awaited the troops,” reported the BBC. “Hundreds of people walked along the route before the memorial was dedicated by the prince. The prince also laid a wreath at the nearby war memorial.”

Meanwhile, Prince Harry’s brother, Prince William, and his wife, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, were in Belgium, where they and other royals were welcomed to a ceremony by Queen Mathilde and King Philippe.

“Kate looked stunning in a cream coat dress with a pleated skirt and Peter Pan collar by Alexander McQueen. She accessorised with a matching hat with dusty pink roses by Jane Taylor, her trusty LK Bennett heels, clutch bag and a pair of pearl drop earrings. Prince William, meanwhile, was handsome in a navy suit. He also wore the gold and silver Jubilee medals given to him by the Queen,” noted Hello! magazine, adding that this would be among the couple’s final public appearances before disappearing for a summer holiday of about a month.

Prince William also delivered a speech, expressing gratitude to Belgium for the country’s strength during the conflict.

“As William attended commemorations of 100 years since Britain’s entry into the First World War in Belgium, he said the U.K. owed a great debt of gratitude to the country for its fortitude and resistance during the war,” reported the Daily Mail. “In his speech, William described how during the war Europeans were ‘engulfed by killing and destruction,’ saying: ‘Among the very first victims were the people of Belgium, whose resistance was as gallant as their suffering was great.’ ”

Prince William’s father, Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, was in Glasgow on Monday morning, where he took part in a wreath ceremony.

“Charles’s arrival was heralded by a fanfare by trumpeters from the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Scotland,” reported the Glasgow Evening Times. “Charles, who is known as the Duke of Rothesay in Scotland, was wearing the Royal Navy Ceremonial Day Dress with medals.”

The royals, including Queen Elizabeth, were expected to make more public appearances throughout the day.

Prince Harry attends the “Step Short” commemorative event in Folkestone to mark the centenary of the First World War on August 4, 2014 in Folkestone, England. Monday 4th August marks the 100th anniversary of Great Britain declaring war on Germany. In 1914 British Prime Minister Herbert Asquith announced at 11 p.m. that Britain was to enter the war after Germany had violated Belgium neutrality. The First World War or the Great War lasted until 11 November 1918 and is recognized as one of the deadliest historical conflicts with millions of causalities. A series of events commemorating the 100th anniversary are taking place throughout the day. Anthony Harvey, Getty Images.

King Felipe of Spain at a Commemoration Ceremony at Le Memorial Interallie in Liege, Belgium. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

Queen Mathilde of Belgium (C) stands between guests: outgoing Belgian Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo (1st row,2ndL), Britain’s Prince William (3rdL), The Duke of Cambridge , Britain’s Catherine (Kate), Duchess of Cambridge, (4thL), French President Francois Hollande (5thL), German President Joachim Gauck (8thL) and Spanish King Felipe VI (4thR) at a ceremony at the memorial in Cointe, for the 100th anniversary of the First World War, on August 4, 2014, in Liege. Belga Bruno Fahy, AFP/Getty Images.

Prince Charles, Prince Of Wales, attends a memorial service at Glasgow Cathedral to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War. Russell Cheyne, WPA Pool /Getty Images.

Prince Charles attends a wreath-laying ceremony at the cenotaph in Glasgow to commemorate the centenary of the start of the Great War. Danny Lawson, WPA Pool, Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/royals-in-europe-mark-anniversary-of-first-world-war/feed0The Duke & Duchess Of Cambridge Attend A Service Of RemembrancerdunleyPrince Harry attends the "Step Short" commemorative event in Folkestone to mark the centenary of the First World War on August 4, 2014 in Folkestone, England. Monday 4th August marks the 100th anniversary of Great Britain declaring war on Germany. In 1914 British Prime Minister Herbert Asquith announced at 11 p.m. that Britain was to enter the war after Germany had violated Belgium neutrality. The First World War or the Great War lasted until 11 November 1918 and is recognized as one of the deadliest historical conflicts with millions of causalities. A series of events commemorating the 100th anniversary are taking place throughout the day. Anthony Harvey, Getty Images.Anthony Harvey, Getty Images.Anthony Harvey, Getty Images.Anthony Harvey, Getty Images.Anthony Harvey, Getty Images.Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, attend a Commemoration Ceremony at Le Memorial Interallie on August 4, 2014 in Liege, Belgium. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, AFP/Getty Images.Chris Jackson, AFP/Getty Images.Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, French President Francois Hollande and Belgium's Queen Mathilde attend at Le Memorial Interallie in Liege, Belgium. Chris Jackson, AFP/Getty Images.Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge with Francois Hollande. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, share a lighter moment with Francois Hollande. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.King Philippe of Belgium is greeted by a young girl at a Commemoration Ceremony at Le Memorial Interallie on August 4, 2014 in Liege, Belgium. Francois Lenoir, Pool /Getty Images.Prince William and Kate with French President Francois Hollande and German President Joachim Gauck at Le Memorial Interallie in Liege, Belgium. Francois Lenoir, Pool /Getty Images.Queen Mathilde of Belgium attends a Commemoration Ceremony at Le Memorial Interallie on August 4, 2014 in Liege, Belgium. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.King Felipe of Spain at a Commemoration Ceremony at Le Memorial Interallie in Liege, Belgium. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Queen Mathilde of Belgium (C) stands between guests as outgoing Belgian Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo (1st row,2ndL), Britain's Prince William (3rdL), The Duke of Cambridge , Britain's Catherine (Kate), Duchess of Cambridge, (4thL), French President Francois Hollande (5thL), German President Joachim Gauck (8thL) and Spanish King Felipe VI (4thR) at a ceremony at the memorial interallied in Cointe, for the 100th anniversary of the First World War, on August 4, 2014, in Liege. AFP PHOTO BELGA BRUNO FAHY ** Belgium Out ** BRUNO FAHY/AFP/Getty ImagesPrince Charles, Prince Of Wales, attends a memorial service at Glasgow Cathedral to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War. Russell Cheyne, WPA Pool /Getty Images.Danny Lawson, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Danny Lawson, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Prince Charles and Prime Minister David Cameron attend a wreath-laying ceremony at the cenotaph in Glasgow. Danny Lawson, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Prince Charles and British Prime Minister David Cameron attend a wreath-laying ceremony at the cenotaph in Glasgow. Danny Lawson, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Danny Lawson, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Prince Charles attends a memorial service at Glasgow Cathedral. Russell Cheyne, WPA Pool, Getty Images.Prince Charles attends a wreath-laying ceremony at the cenotaph in Glasgow to commemorate the centenary of the start of the Great War. Danny Lawson, WPA Pool, Getty Images.From bagpipers to Loch Ness Monster, Scottishness celebrated as Commonwealth Games openhttp://o.canada.com/sports/from-bagpipers-to-loch-ness-monster-scottishness-celebrated-as-commonwealth-games-open
http://o.canada.com/sports/from-bagpipers-to-loch-ness-monster-scottishness-celebrated-as-commonwealth-games-open#commentsThu, 24 Jul 2014 00:33:22 +0000http://postmediacanadadotcom.wordpress.com/?p=489356]]>GLASGOW — The Loch Ness Monster, tartan-clad bagpipers and giant pieces of shortbread took the place of footballers on the Celtic Park pitch as the Commonwealth Games began with a celebration of Scottish mythology and traditions on Wednesday.

Scotland is hosting the 20th edition of the games for former British colonies as its own future as part of Britain could be coming to an end. With an independence referendum coming on Sept. 18, the issue of Scotland’s national identity is in sharp focus and organizers made light of perceptions of the country with a self-deprecating start to the ceremony attended by Queen Elizabeth II.

There was singing on whiskey barrels, the giant rubber Loch Ness Monster and a giant haggis on the pitch during the rapid, often chaotic “Kingdom of the Scots” opening sequence. After rock star Rod Stewart performed at the home of his beloved football club, Scottish champion Celtic, there was a rendition of Mull of Kintyre from Susan Boyle, the church volunteer whose soaring voice turned her into an overnight reality TV star.

But after the athletes from the 71 Commonwealth countries and territories completed their parade onto the pitch, the ceremony took on a sombre tone as the stadium fell silent to mark the Malaysian Airlines crash. Around a third of the 298 victims were from the Commonwealth. Malaysian athletes also donned black armbands to remember their 44 compatriots who died when the jet was shot down over Ukraine.

The Games were officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II after Scottish cycling great Chris Hoy handed over the baton which has travelled throughout the Commonwealth since starting a relay at Buckingham Palace last year.

The 88-year-old monarch showed her lighter side when Hoy and Prince Tunku Imran, president of the Commonwealth Games Federation, struggled to retrieve the message from the baton she left in it. When the note was finally recovered, the queen flashed a smile and held her arms out aloft before revealing its contents.

Sir Chris Hoy assists Prince Imran the CGF president as he attempts to retrieve the message from the baton before presenting it to Queen Elizabeth II, Patron of the CGF, during the opening ceremony for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games at Celtic Park on July 23, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images).

Queen Elizabeth II, Patron of the Commonwealth Games Federation, speaks during the opening ceremony for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games at Celtic Park on July 23, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images).

The Queen, who is facing the breakup of Britain after the Scottish referendum, reminded the Commonwealth of “our shared ideals and ambitions as a diverse, resourceful and cohesive family.”

“Together, you all play a part in strengthening our friendships in this modern and vibrant association of nations,” she added.

The ceremony used the power of the Commonwealth to appeal to the philanthropy of its members by promoting UNICEF inside the stadium and on the global TV feed. The children’s charity raised more than $4 million in donations through text messages within an hour from U.K. text messages alone.

Canada’s flag bearer Susan Nattrass, a seven-time world champion in trap shooting, waved the red Maple Leaf as she marched, clad in a kilt, ahead of her teammates.

The Canadians, wearing red and white jackets over red plaid pants, entered Celtic Park to Arcade Fire’s Rebellion (Lies) and a loud roar from the fans.

Canada is fielding a team of 265 athletes — its largest team for a non-home Commonwealth Games — and it hopes to climb back onto the overall podium after finishing fourth at the Games four years ago in New Delhi, India.

Chantal Petitclerc, former Paralympic star and Canada’s chef de mission at the Games, was one of six athletes who carried in the Commonwealth Games flag. The others were Kenyan runner Kip Keino, Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Scottish judoka Graeme Randall, Australian swimmer Ian Thorpe and Malaysian squash player Nicol David.

— With files from The Canadian Press.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Iconic rocker Rod Stewart performs at the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony in Celtic Park in Glasgow, Scotland, on Wednesday, July 23, 2014. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan

Fireworks light up the sky during the opening ceremony for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games at Celtic Park on July 23, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images).

Performers dance with an effigy of the Loch Ness Monster during the opening ceremony for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, on Wednesday July 23, 2014 (AP Photo/Frank Augstein).

Dancers perform during the opening ceremony for the 2014 Commonwealth Games at Celtic Park on July 23, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images).

Singer Susan Boyle performs “Mull of Kintyre” during the 0pening ceremony for the 2014 Commonwealth Games at Celtic Park on July 23, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images).

]]>http://o.canada.com/sports/from-bagpipers-to-loch-ness-monster-scottishness-celebrated-as-commonwealth-games-open/feed0Chantal Petitclerc Susan NattrassthecanadadotcomSir Chris Hoy assists Prince Imran the CGF president as he attempts to retrieve the message from the baton before presenting it to Queen Elizabeth II, Patron of the CGF, during the opening ceremony for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games at Celtic Park on July 23, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images).Queen Elizabeth II, Patron of the Commonwealth Games Federation, speaks during the opening ceremony for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games at Celtic Park on July 23, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images).Iconic rocker Rod Stewart performs at the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony in Celtic Park in Glasgow, Scotland, on Wednesday, July 23, 2014. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan Fireworks light up the sky during the opening ceremony for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games at Celtic Park on July 23, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images).Performers dance with an effigy of the Loch Ness Monster during the opening ceremony for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, on Wednesday July 23, 2014 (AP Photo/Frank Augstein).Dancers perform during the opening ceremony for the 2014 Commonwealth Games at Celtic Park on July 23, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images).Singer Susan Boyle performs "Mull of Kintyre" during the 0pening ceremony for the 2014 Commonwealth Games at Celtic Park on July 23, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images).Duchess Kate to make first official solo trip abroadhttp://o.canada.com/news/world/duchess-kate-to-make-first-official-solo-trip-abroad
http://o.canada.com/news/world/duchess-kate-to-make-first-official-solo-trip-abroad#commentsTue, 22 Jul 2014 19:20:28 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=488215]]>After a successful tour of Australia and New Zealand with Prince William and Prince George this past spring, it now looks like Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, feels ready for her first official solo trip abroad in the fall.

The Duchess will visit the beautiful Mediterranean island of Malta in September, a destination that has special significance for the Royal family as it is where Queen Elizabeth lived in the early years of her marriage. The Queen, who was in her 20s at the time, lived on the island intermittently between 1949 until 1951. She had married Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, in 1947.

Duchess Kate will travel to the sunny island of Malta this September for her first official solo trip. Andreas Solaro, AFP/Getty Images.

At the time, she was Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip was serving with the Royal Navy’s Mediterranean Fleet. Malta remains the only foreign nation in which the Queen has ever lived for an extended period of time.

“Princess Elizabeth … enjoyed the life of a naval wife and young mother,” notes the official website of the British Monarchy. “This way of life was not to last long, as her father’s health was deteriorating. In 1952, King George VI’s illness forced him to abandon his proposed visit to Australia and New Zealand. The Princess, accompanied by Prince Philip, took his place.”

The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh lived in Malta when they were just married, while The Duke was on naval service. pic.twitter.com/gHNejjIaIj

Malta, which is located about 80 kilometres south of Sicily, remains a favourite British holiday destination and has a large British ex-pat community. The island is known for its deep history, beautiful architecture and sunny skies.

And though the Duchess will be there to mark the country’s independence, it would seem that Malta still values its relationship with the monarchy .

“Queen Elizabeth’s affection for Malta is reflected in the strong bonds that have existed between this country and the United Kingdom for over 200 years. Like everything about her reign, the relationship between the two countries has altered over time but the ties have remained strong. Both have shown a remarkable capacity for change,” noted a 2012 editorial in the Times of Malta.”While the young woman who was thrust on the throne 60 years ago has turned into a much loved monarch, the same period has been the most formative and transformational in the history of Malta. The Queen has always been an admired presence in Maltese lives.”

The statement about the Duchess’s fall visit to the island was very brief and short on details.

“Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge will visit Malta on 20th and 21st September 2014 to represent Her Majesty The Queen on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Malta’s independence,” a royal press release notes. “Further details will be announced in due course.”

But many interpret the choice of destination as a sign that the Queen places great faith in the Duchess’s ability to handle the tour.

“In a sign of her confidence in her grandson’s wife, the Queen has asked the Duchess to travel to the Mediterranean island which holds a special place in her heart,” reports the Daily Mail. “The Queen considers their time there as one of the happiest periods of her life as it was their only experience of living like an ‘ordinary’ couple. Although they were accompanied to the island by a retinue which included an equerry, a valet, a lady-in-waiting, and the Princess’s childhood nanny, as well as their ever-present police bodyguards, the newly-weds were pretty much free to come and go as they pleased”

The Auberge de Castille, office of the Prime Minister in Malta. Andreas Solaro, AFP/Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/duchess-kate-to-make-first-official-solo-trip-abroad/feed0Britain Royal Garter CeremonyrdunleyThe royal itinerary for September is not yet known. Andreas Solaro, AFP/Getty Images.Valletta's Grand Harbour. Andreas Solaro, AFP/Getty Images.Valletta's Upper Barracca Gardens in Malta. Andreas Solaro, AFP/Getty Images.The Auberge de Castille, office of the Prime Minister in Malta. Andreas Solaro, AFP/Getty Images.Gallery: Top 10 moments in Prince George’s first yearhttp://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-top-10-moments-in-prince-georges-first-year
http://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-top-10-moments-in-prince-georges-first-year#commentsTue, 08 Jul 2014 15:24:53 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=480844]]>Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge, son of Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, will celebrate his first birthday on Tuesday. It has been an exciting year for the young royal family, and here’s a look back at the top 10 moments in Prince George’s first 12 months.

1. A royal baby is born

Speculation about a due date for the royal baby went on for weeks last summer as media camped outside St. Mary’s hospital in London, where the Duchess had planned to give birth. As time stretched on, false rumours were rampant — but still no sign of the future heir. Finally, on July 22, word came that a healthy baby boy had been born, weighing in at eight pounds, six ounces.

The tiny prince. John Stillwell, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, depart The Lindo Wing with their newborn son at St Mary’s Hospital on July 23, 2013 in London, England. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

2. Meeting the grandparents — and a very special great-grandmother

The day after he was born, Prince George met his grandparents on both sides for the first time. First to visit the tiny prince were his maternal grandparents, Michael and Carole Middleton (who arrived for the visit in a cab). They were followed a short time later by the baby’s paternal grandparents, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. The following day, Queen Elizabeth travelled to the Cambridges’ home, Kensington Palace, to meet the tiny heir. “It was the first time in almost 120 years that a reigning sovereign had cradled a direct heir three generations younger than her. The monarchy, literally and metaphorically, was in safe hands,” wrote Gordon Rayner for the Daily Telegraph.

Carole and Michael Middleton arrive at The Lindo Wing to visit their daughter Catherine, Duchess Of Cambridge, and her newborn son. Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images.

3. First family photo

After Prince George was born, royal fans had to wait almost a month before they saw another image of the baby on Aug. 19, 2013. But it was worth the wait. The casual family portrait was not at all like stuffy, staged royal photos of the past. Prince William was featured with his sleeves rolled up as Kate looked relaxed and happy, cradling tiny Prince George. And just to remind everyone that the young royals aren’t afraid to do things differently, this portrait also included two other family members — Lupo, Prince George’s spaniel, and Tilly, the Middleton’s golden retriever. And the photo wasn’t shot by Annie Leibovitz or Mario Testino, either. This intimate shot was taken by none other than grandpa Michael Middleton.

Lupo was in the first official family photo of William, Kate and baby George.

4. A christening fit for a king

Royal fans had yet another long wait before they saw Prince George in public again. This time, though, they got video as well as still images when the royal family gathered for the prince’s christening on Oct. 23, 2013. The family met at the Chapel Royal of St. James’s Palace as Prince George was baptized with water from the River Jordan by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. Seven godparents were chosen for the royal baby: Oliver Baker, Emilia Jardine-Paterson, Hugh Grosvenor, Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton, Julia Samuel, Zara Phillips and William van Cutsem. Guests later enjoyed a slice of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding cake, an English custom to celebrate a christening.

Prince William holds his son, Prince George of Cambridge, as he arrives at the Chapel Royal in central London for the christening of the three month-old baby on October 23, 2013. John Stillwell, AFP/Getty Images.

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge carries her son Prince George of Cambridge after his christening at the Chapel Royal in St James’s Palace. John Stillwell, WPA Pool /Getty Images.

5. Four generations of monarchs

One image of the christening was of key significance — a portrait that showed the reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth, her son and first in line to the throne, Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, his son, Prince William and the newest heir, Prince George of Cambridge. “The Queen, the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Cambridge all co-ordinated their outfits for the historic photoshoot wearing blue-hued outfits. The monarch wore a sky blue Stewart Parvin ensemble, while Charles and William stood either side of her sporting darker blue suits,” reported Hello! magazine. “The last time four generations of royals gathered was in 1894 at the christening of the future king Edward VIII who was pictured with his father George V, grandfather Edward VII and great-grandmother Victoria.”

The British Royal Family gathers for the christening of Prince George. Jason Bell, Camera Press/AP Photo.

6. Winter vacation

In February, Prince George went on his first vacation overseas with his mother and grandparents, Michael and Carole Middleton. The family travelled to the exclusive Caribbean island of Mustique, known for protecting the rich and famous from prying eyes and paparazzi. In a “world exclusive,” Hello! published the first images of the prince since the christening in London.

Hello! magazine featured exclusive photos of the Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George on their Caribbean holiday.

7. First family trip abroad

In April, the Cambridges headed Down Under for an official tour of Australia and New Zealand. It was their first trip abroad as a family, since Prince William had not accompanied his wife and son on their Caribbean trip to Mustique. The tour was a massive PR coup for the palace, with thousands turning out to see the royal couple at each stop. And the star of the show was undoubtedly Prince George.

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George of Cambridge arrive at Wellington Military Terminal on April 7, 2014 in Wellington, New Zealand. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

8. First royal duty

The prince’s first royal duty took place in New Zealand, where he participated in a playgroup with several other babies. It was the first time the public had seen Prince George in the company of other children — and once again, the photos did not disappoint. Whether he was pulling his mother’s hair or trying to toddle, the prince charmed his playmates and the press.

Prince George of Cambridge plays during a Plunket nurse and parents group visit at Government House on April 9, 2014 in Wellington, New Zealand. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are on a three-week tour of Australia and New Zealand, the first official trip overseas with their son, Prince George of Cambridge. Marty Melville, Pool/Getty Images.

James Whatling-Pool, Getty Images.

Kate plays with Prince George at the playgroup. Marty Melville, AFP/Getty Images.

9. A trip to the zoo

One of the biggest photo opps on the trip to Australia was Prince George’s Easter visit to the famous Taronga Zoo, which had named a bilby, and its bilby enclosure, after the young prince. The zoo reached capacity before the royal family even arrived and photos captured William, Kate and George having fun in the Sunday sunshine, enjoying a day as a family.

Prince William holds Prince George as they look at a Bilby named George at Taronga Zoo. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

William and Kate watch as their son Prince George looks at the bilby that was named after the young prince. David Gray, AFP/Getty Images.

10. First steps

New photographs surfaced in late June of Prince George with his mother at a polo club, where Prince William was playing in a charity match. The real action, however, took place on the sidelines as Prince George, holding his mother’s hand, was starting to walk.

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, and Prince George of Cambridge attend the Royal Charity Polo at Cirencester Park Polo Club on June 15, 2014 in England. Chris Jackson, Getty Images for La Martina.

Chris Jackson, Getty Images for La Martina.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-top-10-moments-in-prince-georges-first-year/feed0William, Kate, GeorgerdunleyThe tiny prince. John Stillwell, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, depart The Lindo Wing with their newborn son at St Mary's Hospital on July 23, 2013 in London, England. The Duchess of Cambridge yesterday gave birth to a boy at 16.24 BST and weighing 8lb 6oz, with Prince William at her side. The baby, as yet unnamed, is third in line to the throne and becomes the Prince of Cambridge. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, depart The Lindo Wing with their newborn son at St Mary's Hospital on July 23, 2013 in London, England. The Duchess of Cambridge yesterday gave birth to a boy at 16.24 BST and weighing 8lb 6oz, with Prince William at her side. The baby, as yet unnamed, is third in line to the throne and becomes the Prince of Cambridge. (Photo by Oli Scarff/Getty Images)Carole and Michael Middleton arrive at The Lindo Wing to visit their daughter Catherine, Duchess Of Cambridge, and her newborn son. Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images.Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall depart The Lindo Wing after visiting Prince George. Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge pose for a photograph with their son, Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge, surrounded by Lupo, the couple's cocker spaniel, and Tilly the retriever (a Middleton family pet) in the garden of the Middleton family home in August 2013. (Photo by Michael Middleton - WPA Pool/Getty Images)Prince William holds his son, Prince George of Cambridge, as he arrives at the Chapel Royal in central London for the christening of the three month-old baby on October 23, 2013. John Stillwell, AFP/Getty Images.Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge carries her son Prince George of Cambridge after his christening at the Chapel Royal in St James's Palace. John Stillwell, WPA Pool /Getty Images.The British Royal Family gathers for the christening of Prince George. Jason Bell, Camera Press/AP Photo.Hello! magazine featured exclusive photos of the Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George on their Caribbean holiday.Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George of Cambridge arrive at Wellington Military Terminal on April 7, 2014 in Wellington, New Zealand. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Prince George of Cambridge plays during a Plunket nurse and parents group visit at Government House on April 9, 2014 in Wellington, New Zealand. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are on a three-week tour of Australia and New Zealand, the first official trip overseas with their son, Prince George of Cambridge. Marty Melville, Pool/Getty Images.James Whatling-Pool, Getty Images.Kate plays with Prince George at the playgroup. Marty Melville, AFP/Getty Images.Prince William holds Prince George as they look at a Bilby named George at Taronga Zoo. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.William and Kate watch as their son Prince George looks at the bilby that was named after the young prince. David Gray, AFP/Getty Images.Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, and Prince George of Cambridge attend the Royal Charity Polo at Cirencester Park Polo Club on June 15, 2014 in England. Chris Jackson, Getty Images for La Martina.Chris Jackson, Getty Images for La Martina.Canada’s Van Doos on guard at Buckingham Palacehttp://o.canada.com/news/world/canadas-van-doos-on-guard-at-buckingham-palace
http://o.canada.com/news/world/canadas-van-doos-on-guard-at-buckingham-palace#commentsTue, 15 Jul 2014 14:17:10 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=484852]]>LONDON — A contingent from Canada’s fabled Royal 22nd Regiment is standing on guard for the Queen.

About 70 members of the unit’s ceremonial guard are in London to protect Buckingham Palace.

Bogdan Maran, AP Photo.

It’s the first time the francophone regiment has stood guard at Buckingham Palace since 1940, when it was done at the request of King George VI, father of Queen Elizabeth.

That also marked the first time the King’s Guard Sentinels got commands not only from a non-British unit but also in French.

The changing the guard ceremony, which is a must-see for tourists besides being a famous military ritual, consists of the old guard handing over responsibility for Buckingham Palace’s safety to the new guard.

The responsibility is given to active infantry regiments who have shown discipline and precision in their movements.

The Canadian High Commission in London tweeted photos and video of the ceremony where the soldiers in red tunics and high fur busby hats marched smartly to complete the handover.

They will assume the duties until July 19.

Bogdan Maran, AP Photo.

The trip to London is part of commemorative activities by the regiment to highlight its history and that of the military in Canada.

The regiment’s delegation will also visit First World War battlefields at Ypres and Passchendale in Belgium as well as Vimy Ridge in France.

The Royal 22nd Regiment, one of three regular force infantry regiments in the Canadian Armed Forces, has been involved in all the armed conflicts and many of the peacekeeping and humanitarian missions in which Canada played a role.

“Members of the Royal 22nd Regiment do Canadians proud, whenever and wherever they are called upon to serve,” said Lt-Gen. Marquis Hainse, commander of the Canadian Army, in a statement.

Alain Forand, a retired major-general who served with the Van Doos, described the ceremony as “a historic moment” for the regiment.

Bogdan Maran, AP Photo.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/canadas-van-doos-on-guard-at-buckingham-palace/feed1Britain Canada Royal GuardsthecanadianpressBogdan Maran, AP Photo.Bogdan Maran, AP Photo.Bogdan Maran, AP Photo.Coyne: A history distinguished both by war-making and by peacekeepinghttp://o.canada.com/news/coyne-a-history-marked-both-by-war-making-and-by-peacekeeping
http://o.canada.com/news/coyne-a-history-marked-both-by-war-making-and-by-peacekeeping#commentsThu, 03 Jul 2014 00:42:43 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=478196]]>The air was unusually heavy with history this Dominion Day — oh all right, Canada Day — in this year of national anniversaries: the 150th anniversary of the Charlottetown and Quebec conferences, the 100th anniversary of the First World War, the 70th anniversary of D-Day.

Speaking at the annual celebration on Parliament Hill, Prime Minister Stephen Harper tried to connect the dots. “In 1864, meeting in Charlottetown and in Quebec, our fathers of Confederation dreamed a magnificent dream, a dream of a united Canada that would take its place among the countries of the world, prosperous, strong and free.” Today, he went on “this is their dream: Canada, a confident partner, a courageous warrior, a compassionate neighbour. Canada, the best country in —”

Whoa, whoa, whoa: what did he say? No, not the “best country” bit. The part before it. A courageous warrior? Across the country, a thousand knees jerk in unison. A bit … militaristic, isn’t it? To talk of such unpleasantness at a time like this? Poor taste, at the least. Would any previous prime minister in our lifetime have referred to Canada’s “warrior” heritage, outside of Remembrance Day? Talk about peacekeeping, or Pearson, but for God’s sake don’t mention the war.

Still, it can hardly have surprised anyone. It’s a standard line in Harper speeches, part of a determined effort to refashion Canada’s self-image — some would say rewrite its history — using the Conservatives’ preferred iconography. By now, the Harper government’s relentless invocation of Canada’s military past has become as much a scandal in certain quarters as its obstinate advocacy of the monarchy, its fascination with the North, its seeming belief that Canada’s history begins before 1968.

Such is the state of the history wars that even so innocuous a step as changing the name of the Canadian Museum of Civilization to the Canadian Museum of History, with a mandate, as a spokesman for the Heritage Minister explained this week, to “highlight the national achievements and accomplishments that have shaped our country,” has aroused suspicions. Surely it must be some devious Tory propaganda exercise, the critics sniff, an attempt to whitewash the country’s past, or worse, harness it to conservative ideology.

Governor General David Johnston and his wife Sharon lay a wreath during a ceremony in Ottawa, Friday June 6, 2014 marking the 70th Anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Fred Chartrand

Because heaven knows, that’s never been tried before. For most of the past 60 or 70 years, Liberal nationalists (often taking their cue from New Democrats) have peddled their own national mythology: of the country as, quite literally, the creature of the state, of its supposed “public enterprise culture,” of an almost genetic Canadian preference for collectivism, as distinct from those rabid individualists to the south.

For such differences, to nationalists of this school, were everything: robust enough in themselves to justify our nationhood and yet fragile enough to require the most heroic efforts of preservation. To the extent the country was defined by anything but what it was not, it was the flag and the Charter of Rights, medicare and multiculturalism: Liberal policies all. L’état, c’était eux.

So it was not entirely unexpected that the Conservatives, rather than leave the country’s self-definition to the Liberals, such that every policy debate could be framed as pro-Canada or anti-Canada — as every debate had been the last time they were in power — would have sought instead to emphasize their own icons and ideals, their own national mythology.

Up to a point, this was not only to be expected, but desired. To understand this country’s history without reference to its military past is not to understand it at all. War not only played a decisive part in our colonial origins, but has tested our resources and shaped our politics ever since, notably through the two World Wars. Indeed, but for the War of 1812, we might not exist.

The Crown, likewise, is not some useless foreign ornament, as successive Liberal governments often seemed to imply: It is the very foundation of our constitutional order, as essential to our way of life as Parliament, the common law, and the rest of the British inheritance, and as quintessentially Canadian. To remain attached to these institutional underpinnings, to remind ourselves of their advantages, is not to retreat into the past. It is merely to decline to be cut off from it.

So, fine: thus far, the Tories could be said to be righting the balance. But true to the chips on their shoulders, they could not leave it at that. It was not enough to celebrate and affirm Conservative national icons: It was necessary to diminish and downplay Liberal ones. The 30th anniversary of patriation and the Charter of Rights, for example, came and went without any official celebration or even acknowledgment.

And so the history wars continue, pointlessly. Surely it is possible to honour both versions of our past, both sides of our selves, in a country so accustomed to duality — aboriginal and European, French and English, immigrant and native-born — in other respects. Surely we are both a constitutional monarchy and a rights-bearing democracy. Surely our history is distinguished both by war-making and by peacekeeping. Surely our national character is a result both of individual and collective enterprise.
On the other hand, it really should be Dominion Day.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/coyne-a-history-marked-both-by-war-making-and-by-peacekeeping/feed0harperandrewcoyneGovernor General David Johnston and his wife Sharon lay a wreath during a ceremony in Ottawa, Friday June 6, 2014 marking the 70th Anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Fred ChartrandQueen Elizabeth II signs Canada's constitutional proclamation in Ottawa on April 17, 1982 as Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau looks on. Photo by Wayne Cuddington, The Ottawa Citizen. Gallery: Queen Elizabeth in Scotland for Holyrood Weekhttp://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-queen-elizabeth-in-scotland-for-holyrood-week
http://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-queen-elizabeth-in-scotland-for-holyrood-week#commentsMon, 30 Jun 2014 20:21:14 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=476648]]>Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh are in Scotland for the next few days to mark the annual Holyrood Week. There will be several engagements, including a garden party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland.

“The week always begins with the Ceremony of the Keys, the ceremony at which The Queen is received in the city of Edinburgh by the City Chamberlain. Her Majesty is given the keys of the city and is welcomed to ‘your ancient and hereditary kingdom of Scotland,’ ” according to the official website of the British monarchy. “An Investiture ceremony is held in the Great Gallery at the Palace of Holyroodhouse to enable Scottish residents whose achievements have been recognized in the twice-yearly Honours List to collect their honours from Her Majesty in their home country.”

Queen Elizabeth attends the Ceremony of The Keys, with the 2nd Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland as Guard of Honour at The Palace Of Holyroodhouse on June 30, 2014 in Edinburgh, Scotland. Martin Fraser, Getty Images.

Martin Fraser, Getty Images.

Martin Fraser, Getty Images.

Martin Fraser, Getty Images.

Martin Fraser, Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-queen-elizabeth-in-scotland-for-holyrood-week/feed0Queen Elizabeth II & Duke Of Edinburgh Attend The Ceremony Of The KeysrdunleyQueen Elizabeth attends the Ceremony of The Keys, with the 2nd Battallion Royal Regiment of Scotland as Guard of Honour at The Palace Of Holyroodhouse on June 30, 2014 in Edinburgh, Scotland. Martin Fraser, Getty Images.Martin Fraser, Getty Images.Martin Fraser, Getty Images.Martin Fraser, Getty Images.Martin Fraser, Getty Images.Gallery: Queen Elizabeth visits Game of Thrones set in Belfasthttp://o.canada.com/entertainment/television/gallery-queen-elizabeth-visits-game-of-thrones-set-in-belfast
http://o.canada.com/entertainment/television/gallery-queen-elizabeth-visits-game-of-thrones-set-in-belfast#commentsTue, 24 Jun 2014 13:36:56 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=472009]]>Queen Elizabeth didn’t need to sit on the Iron Throne. She has her own back home, thanks.

And even though the reigning monarch didn’t sit on the throne that is at the centre of the HBO fantasy-drama Game of Thrones, she appeared to thoroughly enjoy her tour of the Belfast set in the city’s Titanic Quarter. The Queen and Prince Philip made the stop at Paint Hall studios on Tuesday as part of their three-day tour of Northern Ireland.

“As well as meeting cast and production staff, the Royal couple were also given a short overview of the series and the impact it has had on Northern Ireland, not only in terms of employment, but also in the creative arts field,” BBC reported. “The Queen and Prince Philip also viewed some of the props that have featured in the hit fantasy show.”

The Guardian reported that the show has generated millions of pounds for the Northern Ireland economy since 2009.

“According to the Northern Ireland assembly,” the Guardian said, “it has created the equivalent of more than 900 full-time and 5,700 part-time jobs in a region of fewer than 2 million people.”

The Irish Independent reported that David Benioff and Dan Weiss, executive producers and writers of Game of Thrones, led the Queen’s tour.

“She was also presented with a miniature replica of the Iron Throne of Westeros — the real seat is said to be coveted by only the most machiavellian of kings,” noted the Independent.

Fans of the show have noted the similarities between many of the series’ characters and royal figures from British history. Many believe the shows plots, based on the books by George RR Martin, pay homage to the intrigue and bloodshed of the Wars of the Roses, with Lannister simply being a play on Lancaster and Stark being a nod to York.

Queen Elizabeth visits the throne room at the set of the Game of Thrones TV series in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, Northern Ireland, Tuesday, June, 24, 2014. Peter Morrison, AP Photo.

Peter Morrison, AP Photo.

Peter Morrison, AP Photo.

Peter Morrison, AP Photo.

Queen Elizabeth views props during her visit to the set of the HBO TV series “Game of Thrones” in the Titanic Quarter in Belfast on June 24, 2014. Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.

Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.

Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.

Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.

Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, view props and costumes during their visit to the set of the HBO TV series “Game of Thrones.” Arthur Allison, AFP/Getty Images.

Arthur Allison, AFP/Getty Images.

Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.

Arthur Allison, AFP/Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/entertainment/television/gallery-queen-elizabeth-visits-game-of-thrones-set-in-belfast/feed1Britain Northern Ireland Queen ElizabethrdunleyQueen Elizabeth visits the throne room at the set of the Game of Thrones TV series in Belfast's Titanic Quarter, Northern Ireland, Tuesday, June, 24, 2014. Peter Morrison, AP Photo.Peter Morrison, AP Photo.Peter Morrison, AP Photo.Peter Morrison, AP Photo.Queen Elizabeth views props during her visit to the set of the HBO TV series "Game of Thrones" in the Titanic Quarter in Belfast on June 24, 2014. Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, view props and costumes during their visit to the set of the HBO TV series "Game of Thrones." Arthur Allison, AFP/Getty Images.Arthur Allison, AFP/Getty Images.Jonathan Porter, AFP/Getty Images.Arthur Allison, AFP/Getty Images.Gallery: Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip begin tour of Northern Irelandhttp://o.canada.com/news/gallery-queen-elizabeth-prince-philip-begin-tour-of-northern-ireland
http://o.canada.com/news/gallery-queen-elizabeth-prince-philip-begin-tour-of-northern-ireland#commentsMon, 23 Jun 2014 18:51:57 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=471647]]>Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, started their three-day tour of Northern Ireland on Monday, touching down in Belfast and making their way to Hillsborough Castle.

BBC News reported that “the Queen held a private audience with Northern Ireland’s first and deputy first ministers, Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness” and that Prince Philip met several recipients of the Duke of Edinburgh’s gold awards.

Queen Elizabeth speaks with Sinn Fein politician and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland Martin McGuinness at Hillsborough Castle, south of Belfast at the start of her three day visit, on June 23, 2014. Aaron McCracken, AFP/Getty Images.

This will mark the Queen’s third visit with McGuinness, a former leader of the IRA. A more extensive meeting with “Mr. McGuinness will take place tomorrow at the museum at the former Crumlin Road jail where many IRA members and loyalist paramilitaries were imprisoned during the early part of the Troubles,” noted the Irish Times.

One of the highlights of the royal tour of Northern Ireland will be the the Queen’s visit to the set of the wildly popular television show, Game of Thrones. No word on whether the Queen watches the show — or which House she might be backing.

As part of the visit to Northern Ireland The Queen and The Duke will tour the @GameOfThrones set in the Titanic quarter #Belfast#GoT

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh are greeted by Lord Lieutenant of Belfast Mary Peters and Secretary of State Theresa Villiers as they arrive at George Best Belfast City Airport in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The Royal party are visiting Northern Ireland for three days. Marie Therese Hurson, Pool/Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/gallery-queen-elizabeth-prince-philip-begin-tour-of-northern-ireland/feed2Britain Northern Ireland Queen ElizabethrdunleyQueen Elizabeth speaks with Sinn Fein politician and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland Martin McGuinness at Hillsborough Castle, south of Belfast at the start of her three day visit, on June 23, 2014. Aaron McCracken, AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh are greeted by Lord Lieutenant of Belfast Mary Peters and Secretary of State Theresa Villiers as they arrive at George Best Belfast City Airport in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The Royal party are visiting Northern Ireland for three days. Marie Therese Hurson, Pool/Getty Images. Marie Therese Hurson, Pool/Getty Images.The Queen and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, arrive at Hillsborough Castle. Peter Macdiarmid, Getty ImagesThe Queen and Duke of Edinburgh are met by David Lindsay, Lord Lieutenant of County Down (L) as they arrive at Hillsborough Castle. Peter Macdiarmid, Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh are met by David Lindsay, Lord Lieutenant of County Down (L) as they arrive at Hillsborough Castle . Peter Macdiarmid, Getty Images.The Queen and Prince Philip are met by David Lindsay, Lord Lieutenant of County Down (2L) as they arrive at Hillsborough Castle. Peter Macdiarmid, Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh arrive at Hillsborough Castle on June 23, 2014 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Peter Macdiarmid, Getty Images.Peter Macdiarmid, Getty ImagesQueen Elizabeth arrives at Hillsborough Castle, south of Belfast. Paul Faith, AFP/Getty Images.Paul Faith, AFP/Getty Images.Photos June 18: Top images from around the worldhttp://o.canada.com/news/photos-june-18-top-images-from-around-the-world
http://o.canada.com/news/photos-june-18-top-images-from-around-the-world#commentsWed, 18 Jun 2014 14:17:52 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=467896]]>The day’s best photos, as selected by editors at Postmedia News, are a stunning collection of the greatest images from around the world.

Eduardo Vargas of Chile shoots and scores his team’s first goal past Sergio Ramos and goalkeeper Iker Casillas of Spain during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Chile’s forward Eduardo Vargas (not seen) scores past Spain’s goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas (front) during a Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 18, 2014. AFP PHOTO / LLUIS GENELLUIS GENE/AFP/Getty Images)

Chile’s forward Eduardo Vargas (C) strikes to score Chile’s first goal as Spain’s goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas (L) tries to save the ball during a Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 18, 2014. (GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images)

Eduardo Vargas of Chile celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Chile’s Eduardo Vargas celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the group B World Cup soccer match between Spain and Chile at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

TOPSHOTS Chilean supporters cheer for their team ahead of the Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on June 18, 2014, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. (GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images)

Chile’s Eduardo Vargas, centre, celebrates with teammates after scoring the opening goal during the group B World Cup soccer match between Spain and Chile at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)

Chile fans cheer prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)

A Chile fan wears a replica of the World Cup trophy outside the stadium prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)

Spain’s midfielder Xavi plays the ball during a Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 18, 2014. (CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP/Getty Images)

A Spain fan enjoys the atmosphere prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)

Chile fans cheer prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)

A Chile fan cheers prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)

Chile’s goalkeeper Claudio Bravo makes a save against Spain’s Sergio Ramos during the group B World Cup soccer match between Spain and Chile at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Spain’s midfielder Sergio Busquets reacts to a missed chance during a Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 18, 2014. (LUIS GENE/AFP/Getty Images)

A Spain fan reacts as she watches the FIFA World Cup 2014 football match between Spain and Chilli in Brazil, on a large screen in Madrid on June 18, 2014. (DANI POZO/AFP/Getty Images)

Spain fans react as they watch the FIFA World Cup 2014 football match between Spain and Chilli in Brazil, on a large screen in Madrid on June 18, 2014. (DANI POZO/AFP/Getty Images)

A Spanish soccer fan covers her face as she watches, on a giant display, the World Cup soccer match between Spain and Chile, in Madrid, Spain, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki)

Charles Aranguiz of Chile (not pictured) scores the second goal past Iker Casillas of Spain during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Clive Rose/REMOTE/Getty Images)

Chilean soccer team fans wait for their team to take the field against Spain while watching it on the screen setup at the FIFA Fan Fest during the World Cup tournament on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A 5-1 defeat against Holland in Spain’s first game leaves the world champions on the edge of a first-round knockout. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Georgian actors take a picture of themselves wearing veils before taking part in a joint Georgian-US military counterterrorism exercise called “Agile Spirit 2014″ at the Vaziani military base outside Tbilisi on June 18, 2014.(VANO SHLAMOV/AFP/Getty Images)

A man visits an exhibition at the China National art museum in Beijing on June 18, 2014. China’s new breed of art collectors have propelled Beijing, and to a lesser extent Shanghai, to the forefront of the art scene, with Chinese works of art regularly breaking records at auction. (WANG ZHAO/AFP/Getty Images)

TOPSHOTS A man walks with flower decorated High Heels in Berlin during the “Drag Walk Casting” ahead of the Christopher Street Parade on June 18, 2014. The Christopher Street Day takes place on June 21, 2014. (DANIEL NAUPOLD/AFP/Getty Images )

A couple kiss each other in front of water sprinklers as they walk the dog on a sunny morning near the Chancellery in Berlin, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber)

Would be immigrants try to scale a boarder fence separating Morocco from the Spanish enclave of city of Melilla on June 18, 2014. Some 400 sub-Saharan migrants tried today unsuccessfully to enter Melilla with some 150 still stuck on the fence itself or between the tripple fenced border line, local authorities announced. (JOSE COLON/AFP/Getty Images)

TOPSHOTS This picture taken on June 17, 2014 shows riders wearing ethnic group costume competing in a traditional horseback riding event in Hongyuan county of Aba town, or Ngawa town, southwest China’s Sichuan province. Some 300 riders from 15 teams around the country took part in the traditional horseback riding event, local media reported. (AFP/Getty Images)

A Sri Lankan freshwater fish street vendor waits for cutomers beside his auto rickshaw with fish in plastic bags hanging from it in Colombo on June 17, 2014. (Ishara S.KODIKARA/AFP/Getty Images )

A Pakistani tribal girl sits next to her belongings on a truck after arriving to Bannu, Pakistan, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. Thousands of villagers fled as Pakistani army relax a curfew in troubled North Waziristan. Pakistani jets pounded targets in the country’s northwest in major offensives designed to root out safe havens in the volatile region. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

Pakistani civilians, fleeing from a military operation in North Waziristan tribal agency, arrive in Bannu district on June 18, 2014. Pakistan eased a curfew in a tribal area to allow civilians to flee a major offensive against the Taliban, signalling a likely escalation in the campaign as the US hit the militants with drone strikes. More than 1,000 vehicles arrived June 18 in the town of Bannu, a traditional haven for those fleeing violence in restive North Waziristan. (HASHAM AHMED/AFP/Getty Images)

A handout picture released by Caritas Internationalis shows a man looking at a Syrian refugee camp in the Lebanese village of Zahle in the Bekaa valley on June 18, 2014. (MATTHIEU ALEXANDRE/AFP/Getty Images)

South African soldiers from the guard of honour march ahead of the State of the Nation address in parliament in Cape Town, South Africaon June 17, 2014. President Jacob Zuma is under pressure to deliver in his second term in office as he gives his State of the Nation address with the new parliament gathering following the April general elections.(NIC BOTHMA/AFP/Getty Images)

Pro-Russian fighters walk as they handover the bodies of Ukrainian troops killed in a plane shot down near Luhansk, at a check point in the village of Karlivka near Donetsk, eastern Ukraine, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. The two sides managed to arrange a brief truce Wednesday evening in the eastern town of Karlivka to allow pro-Russian forces to hand over the bodies of 49 Ukrainian troops who died when the separatists shot down a transport plane bound for the airport in Luhansk last weekend. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)

Pro-Russian fighters wave a white flag to start a handover of the bodies of Ukrainian troops killed in a plane shot down near Luhansk, at a check point in the village of Karlivka near Donetsk, eastern Ukraine, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. The two sides managed to arrange a brief truce Wednesday evening in the eastern town of Karlivka to allow pro-Russian forces to hand over the bodies of 49 Ukrainian troops who died when the separatists shot down a transport plane bound for the airport in Luhansk last weekend. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)

A commander of the honor guard adjusts the uniform of a soldier prior a welcoming ceremony for Turkmenistan’s President at the presidential palace as he meets his Hungarian counterpart in Budapest on June 18, 2014. (ATTILA KISBENEDEK/AFP/Getty Images)

A racegoer poses for photographers on the second day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meet, in Berkshire, west of London, on June 18, 2014. Horse racing has been held at the famous Berkshire course since 1711 and tradition is a hallmark of the meeting. Top hats and tails remain compulsory in parts of the course while a daily procession of horse-drawn carriages brings the Queen to the course. (LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images)

A racegoer poses for photographers on the second day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meet, in Berkshire, west of London, on June 18, 2014. Horse racing has been held at the famous Berkshire course since 1711 and tradition is a hallmark of the meeting. Top hats and tails remain compulsory in parts of the course while a daily procession of horse-drawn carriages brings the Queen to the course. (LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images)

Tamara Czartoryski wears an ornate hat on the second day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting at Ascot, England, Wednesday, June, 18, 2014. Royal Ascot is the annual five day horse race meeting that Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II attends every day of the event. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Jaqui Jaynes wears an ornate hat on the second day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting at Ascot, England, Wednesday, June, 18, 2014. Royal Ascot the annual five day horse race meeting that Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II attends every day of the event. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/photos-june-18-top-images-from-around-the-world/feed0TOPSHOTS-FBL-WC-2014-MATCH19-ESP-CHIpostmedianews1Eduardo Vargas of Chile shoots and scores his team's first goal past Sergio Ramos and goalkeeper Iker Casillas of Spain during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) Chile's forward Eduardo Vargas (not seen) scores past Spain's goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas (front) during a Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 18, 2014. AFP PHOTO / LLUIS GENELLUIS GENE/AFP/Getty Images Chile's forward Eduardo Vargas (C) strikes to score Chile's first goal as Spain's goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas (L) tries to save the ball during a Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 18, 2014. (GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images)Eduardo Vargas of Chile celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) Chile's Eduardo Vargas celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the group B World Cup soccer match between Spain and Chile at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)TOPSHOTS Chilean supporters cheer for their team ahead of the Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on June 18, 2014, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. AFP PHOTO / GABRIEL BOUYSGABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images ORG XMIT: 491714365Chile's Eduardo Vargas, centre, celebrates with teammates after scoring the opening goal during the group B World Cup soccer match between Spain and Chile at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez)Chile fans cheer prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) A Chile fan wears a replica of the World Cup trophy outside the stadium prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) Spain's midfielder Xavi plays the ball during a Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 18, 2014. (CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP/Getty Images)A Spain fan enjoys the atmosphere prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) Chile fans cheer prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) A Chile fan cheers prior to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) Chile's goalkeeper Claudio Bravo makes a save against Spain's Sergio Ramos during the group B World Cup soccer match between Spain and Chile at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein) Spain's midfielder Sergio Busquets reacts to a missed chance during a Group B football match between Spain and Chile in the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 18, 2014. (LUIS GENE/AFP/Getty Images)A Spain fan reacts as she watches the FIFA World Cup 2014 football match between Spain and Chilli in Brazil, on a large screen in Madrid on June 18, 2014. (DANI POZO/AFP/Getty Images)Spain fans react as they watch the FIFA World Cup 2014 football match between Spain and Chilli in Brazil, on a large screen in Madrid on June 18, 2014. (DANI POZO/AFP/Getty Images)A Spanish soccer fan covers her face as she watches, on a giant display, the World Cup soccer match between Spain and Chile, in Madrid, Spain, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki) Charles Aranguiz of Chile (not pictured) scores the second goal past Iker Casillas of Spain during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group B match between Spain and Chile at Maracana on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Clive Rose/REMOTE/Getty Images)Chilean soccer team fans wait for their team to take the field against Spain while watching it on the screen setup at the FIFA Fan Fest during the World Cup tournament on June 18, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A 5-1 defeat against Holland in Spain's first game leaves the world champions on the edge of a first-round knockout. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Georgian actors take a picture of themselves wearing veils before taking part in a joint Georgian-US military counterterrorism exercise called "Agile Spirit 2014" at the Vaziani military base outside Tbilisi on June 18, 2014.(VANO SHLAMOV/AFP/Getty Images)A man visits an exhibition at the China National art museum in Beijing on June 18, 2014. China's new breed of art collectors have propelled Beijing, and to a lesser extent Shanghai, to the forefront of the art scene, with Chinese works of art regularly breaking records at auction. (WANG ZHAO/AFP/Getty Images)TOPSHOTS A man walks with flower decorated High Heels in Berlin during the "Drag Walk Casting" ahead of the Christopher Street Parade on June 18, 2014. The Christopher Street Day takes place on June 21, 2014. (DANIEL NAUPOLD/AFP/Getty Images )A couple kiss each other in front of water sprinklers as they walk the dog on a sunny morning near the Chancellery in Berlin, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber) Would be immigrants try to scale a boarder fence separating Morocco from the Spanish enclave of city of Melilla on June 18, 2014. Some 400 sub-Saharan migrants tried today unsuccessfully to enter Melilla with some 150 still stuck on the fence itself or between the tripple fenced border line, local authorities announced. (JOSE COLON/AFP/Getty Images)TOPSHOTS This picture taken on June 17, 2014 shows riders wearing ethnic group costume competing in a traditional horseback riding event in Hongyuan county of Aba town, or Ngawa town, southwest China's Sichuan province. Some 300 riders from 15 teams around the country took part in the traditional horseback riding event, local media reported. CHINA OUT AFP PHOTOAFP/AFP/Getty ImagesA Sri Lankan freshwater fish street vendor waits for cutomers beside his auto rickshaw with fish in plastic bags hanging from it in Colombo on June 17, 2014. (Ishara S.KODIKARA/AFP/Getty Images )A Pakistani tribal girl sits next to her belongings on a truck after arriving to Bannu, Pakistan, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. Thousands of villagers fled as Pakistani army relax a curfew in troubled North Waziristan. Pakistani jets pounded targets in the country's northwest in major offensives designed to root out safe havens in the volatile region. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash) Pakistani civilians, fleeing from a military operation in North Waziristan tribal agency, arrive in Bannu district on June 18, 2014. Pakistan eased a curfew in a tribal area to allow civilians to flee a major offensive against the Taliban, signalling a likely escalation in the campaign as the US hit the militants with drone strikes. More than 1,000 vehicles arrived June 18 in the town of Bannu, a traditional haven for those fleeing violence in restive North Waziristan. (HASHAM AHMED/AFP/Getty Images)A handout picture released by Caritas Internationalis shows a man looking at a Syrian refugee camp in the Lebanese village of Zahle in the Bekaa valley on June 17, 2014. (MATTHIEU ALEXANDRE/AFP/Getty Images) South African soldiers from the guard of honour march ahead of the State of the Nation address in parliament in Cape Town, South Africaon June 17, 2014. President Jacob Zuma is under pressure to deliver in his second term in office as he gives his State of the Nation address with the new parliament gathering following the April general elections.(NIC BOTHMA/AFP/Getty Images)Pro-Russian fighters walk as they handover the bodies of Ukrainian troops killed in a plane shot down near Luhansk, at a check point in the village of Karlivka near Donetsk, eastern Ukraine, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. The two sides managed to arrange a brief truce Wednesday evening in the eastern town of Karlivka to allow pro-Russian forces to hand over the bodies of 49 Ukrainian troops who died when the separatists shot down a transport plane bound for the airport in Luhansk last weekend. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka) Pro-Russian fighters wave a white flag to start a handover of the bodies of Ukrainian troops killed in a plane shot down near Luhansk, at a check point in the village of Karlivka near Donetsk, eastern Ukraine, Wednesday, June 18, 2014. The two sides managed to arrange a brief truce Wednesday evening in the eastern town of Karlivka to allow pro-Russian forces to hand over the bodies of 49 Ukrainian troops who died when the separatists shot down a transport plane bound for the airport in Luhansk last weekend. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka) A commander of the honor guard adjusts the uniform of a soldier prior a welcoming ceremony for Turkmenistan's President at the presidential palace as he meets his Hungarian counterpart in Budapest on June 18, 2014. (ATTILA KISBENEDEK/AFP/Getty Images)A racegoer poses for photographers on the second day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meet, in Berkshire, west of London, on June 18, 2014. Horse racing has been held at the famous Berkshire course since 1711 and tradition is a hallmark of the meeting. Top hats and tails remain compulsory in parts of the course while a daily procession of horse-drawn carriages brings the Queen to the course. (LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images)A racegoer poses for photographers on the second day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meet, in Berkshire, west of London, on June 18, 2014. Horse racing has been held at the famous Berkshire course since 1711 and tradition is a hallmark of the meeting. Top hats and tails remain compulsory in parts of the course while a daily procession of horse-drawn carriages brings the Queen to the course. (LEON NEAL/AFP/Getty Images)Tamara Czartoryski wears an ornate hat on the second day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting at Ascot, England, Wednesday, June, 18, 2014. Royal Ascot is the annual five day horse race meeting that Britain's Queen Elizabeth II attends every day of the event. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) Jaqui Jaynes wears an ornate hat on the second day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting at Ascot, England, Wednesday, June, 18, 2014. Royal Ascot the annual five day horse race meeting that Britain's Queen Elizabeth II attends every day of the event. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) Photos June 19: Top images from around the worldhttp://o.canada.com/news/photos-june-18-top-images-from-around-the-world-2
http://o.canada.com/news/photos-june-18-top-images-from-around-the-world-2#commentsThu, 19 Jun 2014 14:00:56 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=468932]]>The day’s best photos, as selected by editors at Postmedia News, are a stunning collection of the greatest images from around the world.

The camp of the mountain rescue service next to the entrance of the Riesending cave near Marktschellenberg, southern Germany, photographed early Thursday June 19., 2014. Germany’s mountain rescue service said after a short pause overnight, its team resumed work early Thursday morning to bring Johann Westhauser the final 180 meters (590 feet) to the surface. The going has been slow as rescuers have had to haul Westhauser by hand through the narrow winding passage. (AP Photo/dpa,Nicolas Armer)

Photo provided by mountain rescue service Bavaria shows rescuers pulling up injured German cave researcher Johann Westhauser out of the country’s deepest cavern near Berchtesgaden at the German-Austrian border Thursday, June 19, 2014. The final stretch marked the end of a spectacular rescue operation that lasted nearly a week. Westhauser sustained head injuries in a rock fall June 8 while nearly 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) underground in the Riesending cave system. (AP Photo/Bergwacht Bayern)

Rescue workers transport equipment into a police helicopter near the entrance to the Riesending vertical cave after the final phase of the transport of injured spelunker Johann Westhauser to the surface on June 19, 2014 near Marktschellenberg, Germany. Westhauser received a severe head injury when he was struck by rocks in the cave on June 8, 1,000 meters below the surface, and emergency crews from Germany, Italy and other nations have been working around the clock in an arduous effort to save him. (Photo by Johannes Simon/Getty Images)

A giant figure of Optimus Prime from the movie “Transformers 4: Age of Extinction” is displayed for the film’s world premiere in Hong Kong Thursday, June 19, 2014. The latest installment in the blockbuster series of “Transformers” films is making its world premier not in the usual entertainment hubs of Los Angeles or New York but in the wealthy Chinese metropolis of Hong Kong, the latest sign of Hollywood’s increasing focus on China’s booming film market. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung) ORG XMIT: XKC125

Members of the Islamist movement Hamas stand behind a barrier erected to seal off the site of an Israeli air strike in Gaza City, on June 19, 2014. Israeli war planes staged several raids on Gaza for the sixth night running after a day in which militants fired five rockets over the border, one of which damaged a house in southern Israel, the army said. (MOHAMMED ABED/AFP/Getty Images)

A Palestinian boy pears from behind a shrapnel riddled metal piece following an Israeli air strike in the Gaza Strip’s northern Beit Lahia town, on June 19, 2014. Israeli war planes staged several raids on Gaza for the sixth night running after a day in which militants fired five rockets over the border, one of which damaged a house in southern Israel, the army said. (MOHAMMED ABED/AFP/Getty Images)

Tourists take a “selfie” during sunset in Salvador, Brazil, on June 18, 2014. (DIMITAR DILKOFF/AFP/Getty Images)

A huge photo of Spains newly crowned King Felipe VI and his wife Spain’s Queen Letizia hangs on the council building in Madrid, Spain, on Thursday, June 19, 2014. Felipe is being formally proclaimed monarch Thursday after 76-year-old King Juan Carlos abdicated so that younger royal blood can rally a country beset by economic problems, including an unemployment rate of 25 percent. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)

Spain’s King Felipe VI waves as Spain’s Queen Letizia looks on from the balcony of the Palacio de Oriente or Royal Palace in Madrid on June 19, 2014 following a swearing in ceremony of Spain’s new King before both houses of parliament. Spain’s King Felipe VI begins a new reign today already facing a threat to the unity of his kingdom as the northeastern region of Catalonia fights to hold an independence referendum on November 9.(GERARD JULIEN/AFP/Getty Images)

MADRID, SPAIN – JUNE 19: King Felipe VI greets crowds of wellwishers as he arrives at the Royal Palace during the King’s official coronation ceremony on June 19, 2014 in Madrid, Spain. The coronation of King Felipe VI is held in Madrid. His father, the former King Juan Carlos of Spain abdicated on June 2nd after a 39 year reign. The new King is joined by his wife Queen Letizia of Spain. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

Spains newly crowned King Felipe VI review troops at the Parliament in Madrid, Spain, Thursday June 19, 2014. Felipes father Juan Carlos, who reigned for four decades, stepped down after signing an abdication law Wednesday so that younger royal blood can rally a country beset by economic problems, including an unemployment rate of 25 percent. (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki)

England’s goalkeeper Joe Hart can’t stop Uruguay’s Luis Suarez’s header to score his side’s first goal during the group D World Cup soccer match between Uruguay and England at the Itaquerao Stadium in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Thursday, June 19, 2014. (AP Photo/Felipe Dana)

Uruguayan fans cheer before the start of a Group D football match between Uruguay and England at the Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 19, 2014. AFP PHOTO / LUIS ACOSTALUIS ACOSTA/AFP/Getty Images

Colombia’s midfielder James Rodriguez celebrates after winning the Group C football match against Ivory Coast at the Mane Garrincha National Stadium in Brasilia during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 19, 2014. Colombia won 2-1. (EITAN ABRAMOVICH/AFP/Getty Images)

Colombia’s midfielder James Rodriguez celebrates after scoring a goal during the Group C football match between Colombia and Ivory Coast at the Mane Garrincha National Stadium in Brasilia during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 19, 2014. Colombia won 2-1. (ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP/Getty Images )

Ivory Coast’s Wilfried Bony (12) and Colombia’s Abel Aguilar (8) battle for the ball during the group C World Cup soccer match between Colombia and Ivory Coast at the Estadio Nacional in Brasilia, Brazil, Thursday, June 19, 2014. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

Ivory Coast’s midfielder Geoffroy Serey Die cries as he listens to his national anthem before the start of the Group C football match between Colombia and Ivory Coast at the Mane Garrincha National Stadium in Brasilia during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 19, 2014. (ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP/Getty Images)

MADRID, SPAIN – JUNE 19: Wellwishers gather at the Royal Palace prior to the King’s official coronation ceremony on June 19, 2014 in Madrid, Spain. The coronation of King Felipe VI is held in Madrid. His father, the former King Juan Carlos of Spain abdicated on June 2nd after a 39 year reign. The new King is joined by his wife Queen Letizia of Spain. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Gregory Polanco (25) can’t get to a double off the right field wall by Cincinnati Reds’ Joey Votto during the fourth inning of a baseball game in Pittsburgh Thursday, June 19, 2014. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Sharon Teague, left and her daughter Ellie wear ornate hats as they pose for photographers on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting, which is traditionally known as Ladies Day, at Ascot, England, Thursday, June, 19, 2014. Royal Ascot the annual five day horse race meeting that Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II attends every day of the event. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Constance Peach, centre, poses with friends for photographers on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting, which is traditionally known as Ladies Day, at Ascot, England, Thursday, June, 19, 2014. Royal Ascot the annual five day horse race meeting that Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II attends every day of the event. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Tiffany Rowe models an ornate hat on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting, which is traditionally known as Ladies Day, at Ascot, England, Thursday, June, 19, 2014. Royal Ascot the annual five day horse race meeting that Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II attends every day of the event. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

This Thursday, June, 19, 2014 photo shows the control screen on Harley-Davidson’s new electric motorcycle, at the company’s research facility in Wauwatosa, Wis. The company plans to unveil the LiveWire model Monday, June 23, at an invitation-only event in New York. (AP Photo/M.L. Johnson)

An environmental activist wearing a gas mask holds a placard reading “Save environment, Vote bill 4972″, as demonstrators burn smoke bombs during an action in front of the Ukrainian parliament in Kiev on June 19, 2014. The activists called for parliament to approve the bill, enabling the assessment of environmental impact according to European norms. (SERGEI SUPINSKY/AFP/Getty Images)

A motorcyclist rides past a wall of flags on a road in Porto Seguro, on June 18, 2014, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. (PATRIK STOLLARZ/AFP/Getty Images)

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/photos-june-18-top-images-from-around-the-world-2/feed1TOPSHOTS-CHINA-TRADITION-FESTIVALpostmedianews1The camp of the mountain rescue service next to the entrance of the Riesending cave near Marktschellenberg, southern Germany, photographed early Thursday June 19., 2014. Germany's mountain rescue service said after a short pause overnight, its team resumed work early Thursday morning to bring Johann Westhauser the final 180 meters (590 feet) to the surface. The going has been slow as rescuers have had to haul Westhauser by hand through the narrow winding passage. Westhauser was injured June 8 while nearly 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) underground in the Riesending cave system in the Alps near the Austrian border. (AP Photo/dpa,Nicolas Armer) Photo provided by mountain rescue service Bavaria shows rescuers pulling up injured German cave researcher Johann Westhauser out of the country's deepest cavern near Berchtesgaden at the German-Austrian border Thursday, June 19, 2014. The final stretch marked the end of a spectacular rescue operation that lasted nearly a week. Westhauser sustained head injuries in a rock fall June 8 while nearly 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) underground in the Riesending cave system. (AP Photo/Bergwacht Bayern) Mountain rescuers carry cave researcher Johann Westhauser , center, to a helicopter outside the Riesending cave near Marktschellenberg, southern Germany, Thursday June 19, 2014. The German cave researcher has been successfully brought to the surface after suffering head injuries in an accident deep underground nearly two weeks ago. Westhauser was injured June 8 while nearly 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) underground in the Riesending cave system in the Alps near the Austrian border. (AP Photo/dpa,Nicolas Armer) Rescue workers transport equipment into a police helicopter near the entrance to the Riesending vertical cave after the final phase of the transport of injured spelunker Johann Westhauser to the surface on June 19, 2014 near Marktschellenberg, Germany. Westhauser received a severe head injury when he was struck by rocks in the cave on June 8, 1,000 meters below the surface, and emergency crews from Germany, Italy and other nations have been working around the clock in an arduous effort to save him. Westhauser was among explorers who first discovered the cave, which is over 20 kilometers long, in 1995. (Photo by Johannes Simon/Getty Images) A giant figure of Optimus Prime from the movie "Transformers 4: Age of Extinction" is displayed for the film's world premiere in Hong Kong Thursday, June 19, 2014. The latest installment in the blockbuster series of "Transformers" films is making its world premier not in the usual entertainment hubs of Los Angeles or New York but in the wealthy Chinese metropolis of Hong Kong, the latest sign of Hollywood's increasing focus on China's booming film market. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung) ORG XMIT: XKC125Members of the Islamist movement Hamas stand behind a barrier erected to seal off the site of an Israeli air strike in Gaza City, on June 19, 2014. Israeli war planes staged several raids on Gaza for the sixth night running after a day in which militants fired five rockets over the border, one of which damaged a house in southern Israel, the army said. (MOHAMMED ABED/AFP/Getty Images)A Palestinian boy pears from behind a shrapnel riddled metal piece following an Israeli air strike in the Gaza Strip's northern Beit Lahia town, on June 19, 2014. Israeli war planes staged several raids on Gaza for the sixth night running after a day in which militants fired five rockets over the border, one of which damaged a house in southern Israel, the army said. (MOHAMMED ABED/AFP/Getty Images)Tourists take a "selfie" during sunset in Salvador, Brazil, on June 18, 2014. (DIMITAR DILKOFF/AFP/Getty Images)A huge photo of Spains newly crowned King Felipe VI and his wife Spain's Queen Letizia hangs on the council building in Madrid, Spain, on Thursday, June 19, 2014. Felipe is being formally proclaimed monarch Thursday after 76-year-old King Juan Carlos abdicated so that younger royal blood can rally a country beset by economic problems, including an unemployment rate of 25 percent. Felipe was to swear an oath at a ceremony with lawmakers in Parliament in front of Spain's 18th-century crown and 17th-century scepter. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) Spain's King Felipe VI waves as Spain's Queen Letizia looks on from the balcony of the Palacio de Oriente or Royal Palace in Madrid on June 19, 2014 following a swearing in ceremony of Spain's new King before both houses of parliament. Spain's King Felipe VI begins a new reign today already facing a threat to the unity of his kingdom as the northeastern region of Catalonia fights to hold an independence referendum on November 9. AFP PHOTO / GERARD JULIENGERARD JULIEN/AFP/Getty ImagesMADRID, SPAIN - JUNE 19: King Felipe VI greets crowds of wellwishers as he arrives at the Royal Palace during the King's official coronation ceremony on June 19, 2014 in Madrid, Spain. The coronation of King Felipe VI is held in Madrid. His father, the former King Juan Carlos of Spain abdicated on June 2nd after a 39 year reign. The new King is joined by his wife Queen Letizia of Spain. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images) ORG XMIT: 498485289Spains newly crowned King Felipe VI review troops at the Parliament in Madrid, Spain, Thursday June 19, 2014. Felipes father Juan Carlos, who reigned for four decades, stepped down after signing an abdication law Wednesday so that younger royal blood can rally a country beset by economic problems, including an unemployment rate of 25 percent. (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki) England's goalkeeper Joe Hart can't stop Uruguay's Luis Suarez's header to score his side's first goal during the group D World Cup soccer match between Uruguay and England at the Itaquerao Stadium in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Thursday, June 19, 2014. (AP Photo/Felipe Dana) Uruguay's Luis Suarez, left, scores the opening goal past England's goalkeeper Joe Hart during the group D World Cup soccer match between Uruguay and England at the Itaquerao Stadium in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Thursday, June 19, 2014. (AP Photo/Felipe Dana)Uruguay's forward Luis Suarez (L) celebrates scoring with teammates Uruguay's forward Edinson Cavani (R) and Uruguay's midfielder Egidio Arevalo Rios (C) during the Group D football match between Uruguay and England at the Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo on June 19, 2014, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. AFP PHOTO / BEN STANSALLBEN STANSALL/AFP/Getty Images Uruguayan fans cheer before the start of a Group D football match between Uruguay and England at the Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 19, 2014. AFP PHOTO / LUIS ACOSTALUIS ACOSTA/AFP/Getty Images Colombia's midfielder James Rodriguez celebrates after winning the Group C football match against Ivory Coast at the Mane Garrincha National Stadium in Brasilia during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 19, 2014. Colombia won 2-1. (EITAN ABRAMOVICH/AFP/Getty Images)Colombia's midfielder James Rodriguez celebrates after scoring a goal during the Group C football match between Colombia and Ivory Coast at the Mane Garrincha National Stadium in Brasilia during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 19, 2014. Colombia won 2-1. (ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP/Getty Images )Ivory Coast's Wilfried Bony (12) and Colombia's Abel Aguilar (8) battle for the ball during the group C World Cup soccer match between Colombia and Ivory Coast at the Estadio Nacional in Brasilia, Brazil, Thursday, June 19, 2014. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) Ivory Coast's midfielder Geoffroy Serey Die cries as he listens to his national anthem before the start of the Group C football match between Colombia and Ivory Coast at the Mane Garrincha National Stadium in Brasilia during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 19, 2014. (ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP/Getty Images)MADRID, SPAIN - JUNE 19: Wellwishers gather at the Royal Palace prior to the King's official coronation ceremony on June 19, 2014 in Madrid, Spain. The coronation of King Felipe VI is held in Madrid. His father, the former King Juan Carlos of Spain abdicated on June 2nd after a 39 year reign. The new King is joined by his wife Queen Letizia of Spain. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images) ORG XMIT: 498485289Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Gregory Polanco (25) can't get to a double off the right field wall by Cincinnati Reds' Joey Votto during the fourth inning of a baseball game in Pittsburgh Thursday, June 19, 2014. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)Sharon Teague, left and her daughter Ellie wear ornate hats as they pose for photographers on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting, which is traditionally known as Ladies Day, at Ascot, England, Thursday, June, 19, 2014. Royal Ascot the annual five day horse race meeting that Britain's Queen Elizabeth II attends every day of the event. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) Constance Peach, centre, poses with friends for photographers on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting, which is traditionally known as Ladies Day, at Ascot, England, Thursday, June, 19, 2014. Royal Ascot the annual five day horse race meeting that Britain's Queen Elizabeth II attends every day of the event. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) Tiffany Rowe models an ornate hat on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting, which is traditionally known as Ladies Day, at Ascot, England, Thursday, June, 19, 2014. Royal Ascot the annual five day horse race meeting that Britain's Queen Elizabeth II attends every day of the event. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) This Thursday, June, 19, 2014 photo shows the control screen on Harley-Davidson's new electric motorcycle, at the company's research facility in Wauwatosa, Wis. The company plans to unveil the LiveWire model Monday, June 23, at an invitation-only event in New York. (AP Photo/M.L. Johnson) An environmental activist wearing a gas mask holds a placard reading "Save environment, Vote bill 4972", as demonstrators burn smoke bombs during an action in front of the Ukrainian parliament in Kiev on June 19, 2014. The activists called for parliament to approve the bill, enabling the assessment of environmental impact according to European norms. (SERGEI SUPINSKY/AFP/Getty Images) A motorcyclist rides past a wall of flags on a road in Porto Seguro, on June 18, 2014, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. (PATRIK STOLLARZ/AFP/Getty Images)Gallery: Queen Elizabeth and her family at Royal Ascothttp://o.canada.com/news/gallery-queen-elizabeth-and-her-family-at-royal-ascot
http://o.canada.com/news/gallery-queen-elizabeth-and-her-family-at-royal-ascot#commentsThu, 19 Jun 2014 19:18:25 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=469378]]>It’s Ascot Week in Britain — a fine time for royal watching as the men wear top hats and the ladies show off their fascinators for the Royal Meeting, a tradition that dates back to the 1820s. Queen Elizabeth, of course, is an avid racing fan, and many members of the royal family are involved in equestrian sports, from polo to show-jumping and dressage. Here is a selection of photos from this week’s Ascot events so far:

Princess Beatrice, right, with her sister Princess Eugenie walk in the parade ring on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting, which is traditionally known as Ladies Day, at Ascot. Carl Court, AFP/Getty Images

Prince Andrew, Duke of York and Prince Harry attend day one of Royal Ascot. Chris Jackson, Getty Images

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, Princess Beatrice of York and Princess Eugenie of York attend day one of Royal Ascot. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth attends day one of Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

Prince Harry, second left, looks round the parade ring as horses for the first race go by, on the first day ofv Royal Ascot. Alastair Grant, AP Photo.

For more royal news and updates, follow @PostmediaRoyals on Twitter.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/gallery-queen-elizabeth-and-her-family-at-royal-ascot/feed0Royal Ascot - Day 2rdunleyPrince Harry attends Day 3 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images.Princess Beatrice, right, with her sister Princess Eugenie walk in the parade ring on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting, which is traditionally known as Ladies Day, at Ascot. Carl Court, AFP/Getty ImagesQueen Elizabeth arrives at Ascot race course on Ladies Day. Carl Court, AFP/Getty Images.Princess Beatrice walks in the parade ring on the third day of Royal Ascot. Alastair Grant, AP Photo.Princess Anne, The Princess Royal attends Day 3 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, during the Royal Procession on day three of Royal Ascot. Charlie Crowhurst, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, during the Royal Procession on day three of Royal Ascot. Charlie Crowhurst, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, during the Royal Procession on day three of Royal Ascot. Charlie Crowhurst, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Queen Elizabeth walks in the parade ring after arriving by open-top carriage on the third day of Royal Ascot. Alastair Grant, AP Photo.Queen Elizabeth, with Prince Andrew, centre and Prince Harry, arrive by carriage in the parade ring on the third day of Royal Ascot. Alastair Grant, AP Photo.Queen Elizabeth, with Prince Philip and Prince Harry, right, arrive by carriage in the parade ring on the third day of Royal Ascot. Alastair Grant, AP Photo.Racegoers take the escalator to private boxes in the Royal Enclosure on the third day of Royal Ascot. Alastair Grant, AP Photo.Anne, Princess Royal embraces Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall as they attend day two of Royal Ascot. Kirstin Sinclair, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Sophie, Countess of Wessex, attends day two of Royal Ascot. Kirstin Sinclair, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Queen Elizabeth watches from the balcony on day two of Royal Ascot. Steve Bardens, Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth attends day two of Royal Ascot. Chris Jackson, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Sophie, Countess of Wessex attends day two of Royal Ascot. Kirstin Sinclair, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Queen Elizabeth on day two of Royal Ascot. Chris Jackson, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall attend Day 2 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson, Getty Images.Prince Charles struggles to unravel his binoculars ahead of the start of the first race on the second day of the Royal Ascot. Leon Neal, AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth attends Day 2 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson, Getty Images.Sophie, Countess Of Wessex, and Prince Edward, Earl Of Wessex, attend Day 2 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson, Getty Images.Sophie, Countess Of Wessex, attends Day 2 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson, Getty Images.Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall arrive for the second day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meet. Leon Neal, AFP/Getty Images.Leon Neal, AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth arrives for the second day of Royal Ascot. Leon Neal, AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth looks out from the Royal Box as she waits to watch the first race on the second day of the Royal Ascot. Alastair Grant, AP Photo.Prince Harry attends day one of Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse Kirstin Sinclair, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Prince Harry attends day one of Royal Ascot. Kirstin Sinclair, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall attends day one of Royal Ascot. Chris Jackson, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Princess Eugenie watches a race at Royal Ascot. Leon Neal, AFP/Gett Images.Princess Beatrice celebrates in the royal box during Day 1 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson, Getty Images.Princess Eugenie watches a race from the royal box during Day 1 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson, Getty Images.Prince Harry attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson, Getty Images.Prince Harry attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson, Getty Images.Princess Eugenie of York arrives into the Parade Ring on the first day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meet. Leon Neal, AFP/Getty Images.Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh arrives into the Parade Ring riding in a carriage on the first day of the Royal Ascot. Leon Neal, AFP/Getty Images.Prince Harry attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson, Getty Images.Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot. Stuart C. Wilson, Getty Images.Prince Andrew, Duke of York and Prince Harry attend day one of Royal Ascot. Chris Jackson, Getty ImagesPrince Charles, Prince of Wales, Princess Beatrice of York and Princess Eugenie of York attend day one of Royal Ascot. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth attends day one of Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Prince Harry, second left, looks round the parade ring as horses for the first race go by, on the first day ofv Royal Ascot. Alastair Grant, AP Photo.The hats of Royal Ascot 2014http://o.canada.com/life/fashion-beauty/the-hats-of-royal-ascot-2014
http://o.canada.com/life/fashion-beauty/the-hats-of-royal-ascot-2014#commentsTue, 17 Jun 2014 16:20:43 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=467045]]>Hats are a must at the Royal Ascot. All women attending either the Royal Enclosure or Grandstand should adhere to the racegoers’ dress code, which specifies a hat or headpiece/fascinator measuring 10cm or more in diameter at its base. Likewise, men in the Royal Enclosure must wear a black or grey top hat. Take a look at some of the headwear choices by racegoers, including the Royal Family.

A racegoer attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

Racegoers attend Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

Left to right: Charles, Prince of Wales, Princess Beatrice of York and Princess Eugenie of York arrive by carriage on the first day of the Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

Queen Elizabeth II, left, with Prince Philip, centre, and Prince Harry arrive by carriage on the first day of the Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

Prince Harry, centre, attends the first day of the Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

Charles, Prince of Wales, left, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall arrive at the Parade Ring on the first day of the Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

A racegoer attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

Former tennis player Steffi Graf attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

Milnda Strudwick attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

Racegoers attend Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

Racegoers attend Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

A racegoer attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

A racegoer attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

Ester Dohnalova attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.

]]>http://o.canada.com/life/fashion-beauty/the-hats-of-royal-ascot-2014/feed1A racegoer attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.thecanadadotcomA racegoer attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.Racegoers attend Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.Left to right: Charles, Prince of Wales, Princess Beatrice of York and Princess Eugenie of YorkQueen Elizabeth II, left, with Prince Philip, centre, and Prince HarryPrince HarryCharles, Prince of Wales, left, and Camilla, Duchess of CornwallA racegoer attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.Former tennis player Steffi GrafMilnda Strudwick attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.Racegoers attend Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.Racegoers attend Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.A racegoer attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.A racegoer attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.Ester Dohnalova attends Day 1 of Royal Ascot at the Ascot Racecourse on June 17, 2014 in Ascot, England.Photos June 14: Top images from around the worldhttp://o.canada.com/news/photos-june-14-top-images-from-around-the-world
http://o.canada.com/news/photos-june-14-top-images-from-around-the-world#commentsSat, 14 Jun 2014 19:28:19 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=465325]]>The day’s best photos, as selected by editors at Postmedia News, are a stunning collection of the greatest images from around the world.

Pro-Russian fighters walk passed the site of remnants of a downed Ukrainian army aircraft Il-76 at the airport near Luhansk, Ukraine, Saturday, June 14, 2014. Pro-Russia separatists shot down a Ukrainian military transport plane Saturday, killing all 49 crew and troops aboard in a bloody escalation of the conflict in the country’s restive east. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)

Pro-Russian fighters collect ammunition from the site of remnants of a downed Ukrainian army aircraft Il-76 at the airport near Luhansk, Ukraine, Saturday, June 14, 2014. Pro-Russian separatists shot down the military transport plane Saturday in the countrys restive east, killing all 49 service personnel on board, Ukrainian officials said. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)

A woman’s head emerges from a large cube whose surface has been filled with water — a creation intitled “Naufrage” (“Shipwrecked”) — by French artist Edouard Sautai, in Mellionnec, western France, on June 14, 2014, as part of the “Lieux mouvants” (“Moving Places”) art event where contemporary art meets nature, by blending in gardens and sacred places. (FRED TANNEAU/AFP/Getty Images)

An Afghan resident holds her voter card after casting her ballot at a polling station in Bamiyan province on June 14, 2014. Polling stations across Afghanistan opened as Afghans headed to vote in the second-round election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai. Residents in the capital Kabul lined up from dawn to cast their ballots in the head-to-head race between former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah and ex-World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani. (KAMRAN SHEFAYEE/AFP/Getty Images)

An Afghan residnet holds up her voter card after casting her ballot at a polling station in Kabul on June 14, 2014. Polling stations across Afghanistan opened as Afghans headed to vote in the second-round election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai. Residents in the capital Kabul lined up from dawn to cast their ballots in the head-to-head race between former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah and ex-World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani. (WAKIL KOHSAR/AFP/Getty Images)

An Afghan resident holds up her ink-stained finger after voting in the presidential election at a polling station in Kabul on June 14, 2014. Polling stations across Afghanistan opened as Afghans headed to vote in the second-round election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai. Residents in the capital Kabul lined up from dawn to cast their ballots in the head-to-head race between former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah and ex-World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani. (SHAH MARAI/AFP/Getty Images)

Colombia’s forward Teofilo Gutierrez celebrates after scoring during a Group C football match between Colombia and Greece at the Mineirao Arena in Belo Horizonte during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (EITAN ABRAMOVICH/AFP/Getty Images )

Colombia’s midfielder James Rodriguez (L) celebrates with teammates after scoring during a Group C football match between Colombia and Greece at the Mineirao Arena in Belo Horizonte during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (EITAN ABRAMOVICH/AFP/Getty Images)

Colombian supporters wait for the start of a Group C football match between Colombia and Greece at the Mineirao Arena in Belo Horizonte during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (ARIS MESSINIS/AFP/Getty Images)

Uruguay’s forward Edinson Cavani celebrates after scoring a penalty kick during a Group D football match between Uruguay and Costa Rica at the Castelao Stadium in Fortaleza during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014.(DANIEL GARCIA/AFP/Getty Images)

Uruguay’s forward Edinson Cavani (top) celebrates with Uruguay’s midfielder Cristian Rodriguez after scoring his team’s first goal during a Group D football match between Uruguay and Costa Rica at the Castelao Stadium in Fortaleza during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP/Getty Images)

Costa Rica’s forward Joel Campbell celebrates after scoring during a Group D football match between Uruguay and Costa Rica at the Castelao Stadium in Fortaleza during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014.(GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images )

A Colombian supporter waits for the start of a Group C football match between Colombia and Greece at the Mineirao Arena in Belo Horizonte during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (PEDRO UGARTE/AFP/Getty Images)

A Colombian supporter waits for the start of a Group C football match between Colombia and Greece at the Mineirao Arena in Belo Horizonte during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (EITAN ABRAMOVICH/AFP/Getty Images)

Masked fans from Uruguay wait for the start of the group D World Cup soccer match between Uruguay and Costa Rica at the Arena Castelao in Fortaleza, Brazil, Saturday, June 14, 2014. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko)

Fanny Neguesha, fiancee of Mario Balotelli of Italy, looks on in the crowd during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group D match between England and Italy at Arena Amazonia on June 14, 2014 in Manaus, Brazil. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

Costa Rica’s forward Joel Campbell celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during a Group D football match between Uruguay and Costa Rica at the Castelao Stadium in Fortaleza during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (RONALDO SCHEMIDT/AFP/Getty Images)

England’s goalkeeper Joe Hart fails to stop a goal by Italy’s Mario Balotelli’s during the second half of the group D World Cup soccer match between England and Italy at the Arena da Amazonia in Manaus, Brazil, Saturday, June 14, 2014. The goal gave Italy a 2-1 win. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

Italy’s Claudio Marchisio celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the group D World Cup soccer match between England and Italy at the Arena da Amazonia in Manaus, Brazil, Saturday, June 14, 2014. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

England’s goalkeeper Joe Hart lies on the net after Italy’s forward Mario Balotelli (not pictured) scored during a Group D football match between England and Italy at the Amazonia Arena in Manaus during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (FRANCOIS XAVIER MARIT/AFP/Getty Images )

England’s forward Daniel Sturridge celebrates after scoring a goal during a Group D football match between England and Italy at the Amazonia Arena in Manaus during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP/Getty Images)

A young child holds a football wearing a shirt in the colours of the Brazilian national flag in a suburb next to The Arena Amazonia in Manaus on June 14, 1014, ahead of the England v Italy match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup. (FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP/Getty Images)

A man heads a soccer ball during a stroll along the beach on a rainy day in Natal, Brazil, Saturday, June 14, 2014. Natal is one of 12 cities hosting games during the 2014 World Cup soccer tournament. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

A boy controls a ball as he plays football on a beach in the western Moroccan city of Essaouira on June 14, 2014. (FADEL SENNA/AFP/Getty Images)

Boys lie on the street in front of a line of riot police during a demonstration against the FIFA World Cup in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil on June 14, 2014. (MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP/Getty Images)

An Egyptian woman walks past a vehicle carrying anti-riot police officers deployed to secure a protest against sexual harassment in Cairo, Egypt, Saturday, June 14, 2014. Egypt’s top prosecutor referred Saturday 13 men to trial for attempted rape and assault of women during public rallies in Cairo’s iconic Tahrir square, the first implementation of tough new penalties against rampant sexual violence, the state news agency reported. Arabic reads, “Your security is our duty, your safety is our target.” (AP Photo/Amr Nabil)

People take photos of Royal Air Force Red Arrows fly past, over Buckingham Palace, during the Trooping The Colour parade, in central London, Saturday, June 14, 2014. Hundreds of soldiers in ceremonial dress have marched in London in the annual “Trooping the Colour” parade to mark the official birthday of Queen Elizabeth II. “Trooping the Colour” originated from traditional preparations for battle, when flags were carried or “trooped” down the rank for soldiers to see. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)

An Afghan resident casts her ballot at a polling station in Herat on June 14, 2014. Polling stations across Afghanistan opened as Afghans headed to vote in the second-round election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai. Residents in the capital Kabul lined up from dawn to cast their ballots in the head-to-head race between former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah and ex-World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani. (Aref Karimi/AFP/Getty Images)

An Afghan resident wanting to vote poses for a photograph with his identity card as he waits for voting to start at a polling centre in Kabul on June 14, 2014. Afghans head to the polls on June 14 for a second-round election to choose a successor to President Hamid Karzai, with the threat of Taliban attacks and fraud looming over the country’s first democratic transfer of power. (SHAH MARAI/AFP/Getty Images)

A robot makes its way through a miniature city made of Legos during the Mini-Urban Challenge national high school robotics competition at the Emerald Coast Convention Center in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., Saturday, June 14, 2014. (AP Photo/Northwest Florida Daily, Nick Tomecek)

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/photos-june-14-top-images-from-around-the-world/feed0A pro-Russian fighter in Ukrainepostmedianews1Pro-Russian fighters walk passed the site of remnants of a downed Ukrainian army aircraft Il-76 at the airport near Luhansk, Ukraine, Saturday, June 14, 2014. Pro-Russia separatists shot down a Ukrainian military transport plane Saturday, killing all 49 crew and troops aboard in a bloody escalation of the conflict in the country's restive east. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)Pro-Russian fighters collect ammunition from the site of remnants of a downed Ukrainian army aircraft Il-76 at the airport near Luhansk, Ukraine, Saturday, June 14, 2014. Pro-Russian separatists shot down the military transport plane Saturday in the countrys restive east, killing all 49 service personnel on board, Ukrainian officials said. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka) A woman's head emerges from a large cube whose surface has been filled with water -- a creation intitled "Naufrage" ("Shipwrecked") -- by French artist Edouard Sautai, in Mellionnec, western France, on June 14, 2014, as part of the "Lieux mouvants" ("Moving Places") art event where contemporary art meets nature, by blending in gardens and sacred places. (FRED TANNEAU/AFP/Getty Images)An Afghan resident holds her voter card after casting her ballot at a polling station in Bamiyan province on June 14, 2014. Polling stations across Afghanistan opened as Afghans headed to vote in the second-round election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai. Residents in the capital Kabul lined up from dawn to cast their ballots in the head-to-head race between former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah and ex-World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani. (KAMRAN SHEFAYEE/AFP/Getty Images)An Afghan residnet holds up her voter card after casting her ballot at a polling station in Kabul on June 14, 2014. Polling stations across Afghanistan opened as Afghans headed to vote in the second-round election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai. Residents in the capital Kabul lined up from dawn to cast their ballots in the head-to-head race between former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah and ex-World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani. (WAKIL KOHSAR/AFP/Getty Images)An Afghan resident holds up her ink-stained finger after voting in the presidential election at a polling station in Kabul on June 14, 2014. Polling stations across Afghanistan opened as Afghans headed to vote in the second-round election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai. Residents in the capital Kabul lined up from dawn to cast their ballots in the head-to-head race between former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah and ex-World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani. (SHAH MARAI/AFP/Getty Images)Colombia's forward Teofilo Gutierrez celebrates after scoring during a Group C football match between Colombia and Greece at the Mineirao Arena in Belo Horizonte during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (EITAN ABRAMOVICH/AFP/Getty Images )Colombia's midfielder James Rodriguez (L) celebrates with teammates after scoring during a Group C football match between Colombia and Greece at the Mineirao Arena in Belo Horizonte during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (EITAN ABRAMOVICH/AFP/Getty Images)Colombian supporters wait for the start of a Group C football match between Colombia and Greece at the Mineirao Arena in Belo Horizonte during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (ARIS MESSINIS/AFP/Getty Images) Uruguay's forward Edinson Cavani celebrates after scoring a penalty kick during a Group D football match between Uruguay and Costa Rica at the Castelao Stadium in Fortaleza during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014.(DANIEL GARCIA/AFP/Getty Images)Uruguay's forward Edinson Cavani (top) celebrates with Uruguay's midfielder Cristian Rodriguez after scoring his team's first goal during a Group D football match between Uruguay and Costa Rica at the Castelao Stadium in Fortaleza during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP/Getty Images)Costa Rica's forward Joel Campbell celebrates after scoring during a Group D football match between Uruguay and Costa Rica at the Castelao Stadium in Fortaleza during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014.(GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images ) A Colombian supporter waits for the start of a Group C football match between Colombia and Greece at the Mineirao Arena in Belo Horizonte during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (PEDRO UGARTE/AFP/Getty Images) A Colombian supporter waits for the start of a Group C football match between Colombia and Greece at the Mineirao Arena in Belo Horizonte during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (EITAN ABRAMOVICH/AFP/Getty Images)Masked fans from Uruguay wait for the start of the group D World Cup soccer match between Uruguay and Costa Rica at the Arena Castelao in Fortaleza, Brazil, Saturday, June 14, 2014. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko) Fanny Neguesha, fiancee of Mario Balotelli of Italy, looks on in the crowd during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group D match between England and Italy at Arena Amazonia on June 14, 2014 in Manaus, Brazil. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images) Costa Rica's forward Joel Campbell celebrates scoring his team's first goal during a Group D football match between Uruguay and Costa Rica at the Castelao Stadium in Fortaleza during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (RONALDO SCHEMIDT/AFP/Getty Images)England's goalkeeper Joe Hart fails to stop a goal by Italy's Mario Balotelli's during the second half of the group D World Cup soccer match between England and Italy at the Arena da Amazonia in Manaus, Brazil, Saturday, June 14, 2014. The goal gave Italy a 2-1 win. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) Italy's Claudio Marchisio celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the group D World Cup soccer match between England and Italy at the Arena da Amazonia in Manaus, Brazil, Saturday, June 14, 2014. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham) England's goalkeeper Joe Hart lies on the net after Italy's forward Mario Balotelli (not pictured) scored during a Group D football match between England and Italy at the Amazonia Arena in Manaus during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (FRANCOIS XAVIER MARIT/AFP/Getty Images )England's forward Daniel Sturridge celebrates after scoring a goal during a Group D football match between England and Italy at the Amazonia Arena in Manaus during the 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2014. (GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP/Getty Images)A young child holds a football wearing a shirt in the colours of the Brazilian national flag in a suburb next to The Arena Amazonia in Manaus on June 14, 1014, ahead of the England v Italy match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup. (FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP/Getty Images)(From L) Iran's forward Karim Ansari Fard, forward Masoud Shojaei and defender Mehrdad Pouladi play during a training session at the CT Joaquim Grava training ground in Sao Paulo during the 2014 FIFA World Cup football tournament on June 14, 2014. (BEHROUZ MEHRI/AFP/Getty Images)A man heads a soccer ball during a stroll along the beach on a rainy day in Natal, Brazil, Saturday, June 14, 2014. Natal is one of 12 cities hosting games during the 2014 World Cup soccer tournament. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) A boy controls a ball as he plays football on a beach in the western Moroccan city of Essaouira on June 14, 2014. (FADEL SENNA/AFP/Getty Images)Boys lie on the street in front of a line of riot police during a demonstration against the FIFA World Cup in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil on June 14, 2014. (MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP/Getty Images)An Egyptian woman walks past a vehicle carrying anti-riot police officers deployed to secure a protest against sexual harassment in Cairo, Egypt, Saturday, June 14, 2014. Egypt's top prosecutor referred Saturday 13 men to trial for attempted rape and assault of women during public rallies in Cairo's iconic Tahrir square, the first implementation of tough new penalties against rampant sexual violence, the state news agency reported. Arabic reads, "Your security is our duty, your safety is our target." (AP Photo/Amr Nabil) People take photos of Royal Air Force Red Arrows fly past, over Buckingham Palace, during the Trooping The Colour parade, in central London, Saturday, June 14, 2014. Hundreds of soldiers in ceremonial dress have marched in London in the annual "Trooping the Colour" parade to mark the official birthday of Queen Elizabeth II. "Trooping the Colour" originated from traditional preparations for battle, when flags were carried or "trooped" down the rank for soldiers to see. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) An Afghan resident casts her ballot at a polling station in Herat on June 14, 2014. Polling stations across Afghanistan opened as Afghans headed to vote in the second-round election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai. Residents in the capital Kabul lined up from dawn to cast their ballots in the head-to-head race between former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah and ex-World Bank economist Ashraf Ghani. (Aref Karimi/AFP/Getty Images) An Afghan resident wanting to vote poses for a photograph with his identity card as he waits for voting to start at a polling centre in Kabul on June 14, 2014. Afghans head to the polls on June 14 for a second-round election to choose a successor to President Hamid Karzai, with the threat of Taliban attacks and fraud looming over the country's first democratic transfer of power. (SHAH MARAI/AFP/Getty Images)A robot makes its way through a miniature city made of Legos during the Mini-Urban Challenge national high school robotics competition at the Emerald Coast Convention Center in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., Saturday, June 14, 2014. (AP Photo/Northwest Florida Daily, Nick Tomecek) Gallery: Duchess Kate at Queen Elizabeth’s garden partyhttp://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-duchess-kate-at-queen-elizabeths-garden-party
http://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-duchess-kate-at-queen-elizabeths-garden-party#commentsTue, 10 Jun 2014 18:33:52 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=461651]]>Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, celebrated his 93rd birthday on Tuesday. He was honoured by friends and guests at a special garden party hosted by his wife, Queen Elizabeth, at Buckingham Palace.

Here’s a video that shows what the garden parties are all about:

And here is a selection of photos from the party, including several of the ever-popular Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.

From left: Britain’s Birgitte, The Duchess of Gloucester, Princess Anne, Kate, Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Eugenie are seen during a garden party held at Buckingham Palace. John Stillwell, PA Wire.

Harper has spoken out more strongly in support of Kyiv and against Russia over its annexation of Crimea and machinations in eastern Ukraine than any Group of Seven leader. Less well known is that Canada has tried in its own, admittedly modest way, to do more to shore up NATO’s feeble eastern flank than any other member of the military alliance except the United States.

Unlike several European leaders, Harper has not abased himself before Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, putting commerce ahead of the principle of territorial integrity which the West has long claimed to be sacrosanct.

Europe’s feckless response to the neighbourhood bully’s decision to unilaterally alter Europe’s borders in Crimea was on full display in France last week. Putin was invited to dinner at the Elysee Palace in Paris by French President Francois Hollande. On Friday, Putin had a place among the heads of state of the West’s leading democracies at ceremonies in Normandy commemorating the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings.

Rather than be discomfited by the hullabaloo his presence caused, Putin appeared to revel in it during what should have been a genial family gathering. As every dinner host knows, figuring out seating can be a delicate business. Denmark’s Queen Margrethe drew the short straw and was seated next to Putin for the D-Day luncheon. She was such a good egg that they had her stand beside Putin for the official group photograph, too. Prime Minister Harper and Queen Elizabeth pointedly chose not to mix with Putin.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper speaks with Prince Charles during a Ceremony of Rememberance on Juno beach in Courcelles-sur-mer, France Friday June 6. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

Avoiding Putin had been U.S. President Barack Obama’s intention, too. It was almost comical to see how hard he tried to avert his glance whenever Putin was nearby. But German Chancellor Angela Merkel manoeuvred Obama into chatting with Putin for a few minutes.

The White House later gushed that this was a “positive development.” However, debriefers also told the Washington press corps that the two leaders disagreed with each other over everything related to Ukraine except for the rather obvious fact that a peaceful solution was better than the alternative.

The enmity that Harper has for Putin is well known. The bigger wonder is how Harper has remained civil with the leaders of France, Britain and Germany when their overarching priority has been to say or do nothing over Ukraine that might offend Putin.

France is the worst offender by far. Obama and NATO have pleaded with Hollande to halt the $1.6 billion US sale of two state-of the art assault ships to Russia. But with its economy in a mess, France held its nose and insisted that the sale will proceed.

Yet these behemoths are purpose-built to project power. They not only carry dozens of attack helicopters and tanks but huge amphibious landing craft, too. One of them, to be called the Sevastopol after the Crimean port, will mostly sail in the Mediterranean Sea, where Russian support for Syria has probably been the decisive factor in keeping President Bashar Assad in power.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper, centre, is welcomed by European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso, left, and European Council President Herman Van Rompuy during arrivals for a G7 summit in Brussels on Wednesday, June 4. The Associated Press

How this helps NATO, Europe or world peace is difficult to fathom, but unless the French do a last minute volte-face the first Russian sailors are to begin training with French sailors next week.

While Britain has sent warships and fighter jets to the Baltics in support of NATO’s eastern members, it has been in a quandary over the question of stiffer economic sanctions against Russia. This is because, for years, Britain has eagerly encouraged every Russian crook to take his ill-gotten billions there, creating an unprecedented bonanza at the top end of London’s housing market.

Germany’s Achilles heel is energy. It cannot survive without Russian oil and gas because it long ago failed to diversify its source of energy supplies. Nor do big Germany companies such as Mercedes and BMW want to risk losing what is their most profitable market.

The policy decided upon at an emergency G-7 summit in Holland two months ago was that the West would ratchet up its sanctions against Russia if it did not leave Crimea. But there was no mention of this at a second G-7 summit in Belgium last week. Such timidity has made Putin understand that he can do as he wishes about Ukraine.

Gen. Lucius Clay, who was the U.S. military governor in Occupied Germany after the Second World War, had this this to say about how to deal with the Kremlin over Cold War dramas such as the Berlin Airlift.

“The Russians understand only one thing and that is force,” Clay said.

That does not mean war over Ukraine, but standing up to Russia in every other way, so that it stops threatening to grab even more of Ukraine. Only Harper and perhaps Obama seem to understand this. Europeans know better than anyone where appeasement can lead, but refuse to do their part.

Twitter: @mfisheroverseas

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/canada-stands-alone-in-its-tough-approach-to-bully-russia/feed0harperfisherrmatthewPrime Minister Stephen Harper speaks with Prince Charles Prime Minister Stephen Harper is welcomed to G7 summit.Fisher: D-Day anniversary: World leaders, veterans gather in Normandyhttp://o.canada.com/news/world-leaders-veterans-civilians-gather-in-normandy
http://o.canada.com/news/world-leaders-veterans-civilians-gather-in-normandy#commentsFri, 06 Jun 2014 17:16:00 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=459513]]>Courseulles-sur-Mer, France — Against a backdrop of renewed tensions between East and West across Eastern Europe, the beach where 14,000 Canadians came ashore under intense German fire 70 years ago was almost deserted Friday. French and Canadian dignitaries gathered on the northern French coast, under a dazzling blue sky for a ceremony that was more a celebration of D-Day and Canada’s achievements in the Second World War than a solemn remembrance of the more than 1,000 dead or wounded Canadians.

“All the things, in fact, that our enemies despised and had extinguished from every part of the continent they had conquered,” Harper said in his speech to about 100 D-Day veterans and dozens of other nonagenarians, who crossed Juno Beach after the first wave established a beachhead. They then pushed east toward even bloodier battles in Caen and the Falaise Gap, or fought elsewhere in Europe, North Africa and Asia during those uncertain times.

Given the current dispute over eastern Ukraine, it was a day of drama in Normandy as some leaders appeared to treat Russian President Vladimir Putin as if he was a pariah because of Russia’s annexation of Crimea from Ukraine. However, U.S. President Barack Obama and Putin later spoke informally for a few minutes at the multinational ceremony. And Putin did not want for companionship at this liberation celebration. France’s President Francois Hollande, who had invited Putin to Normandy, wined and dined him in Paris on Thursday and Britain’s David Cameron and Germany’s Angela Merkel met privately with the Russian leader Friday in Normandy.

The very different receptions accorded the Russian strongman underlined a split between the North American and European ideas about how to deal with Putin’s apparent desire to turn back Europe’s political clock to a time when Russia was feared.

In a meeting that had been arranged by Hollande and Merkel near Sword Beach, which was one of the two landing points for British troops, Putin spoke briefly Friday with Ukraine’s President-elect Petro Poroshenko. Putin and the confectionery tycoon are not unknown to each other. They had met previously to discuss Poroshenko’s business interests in Russia, but this was their first get together since Russia grabbed Crimea and threatened to send troops to protect ethnic Russians in eastern Ukraine.

Hollande singled out Canada, Britain and the U.S. for special thanks. But he also mentioned the Soviet Union’s immense suffering and huge contribution to defeating Hitler’s armies on the eastern front.

Curiously, although the Red Army played no role on D-Day, Putin garnered far more applause than Harper did when he walked toward the stage in Ouistreham where the official multinational ceremony was held. So, for that matter, did Germany’s Merkel and America’s Obama. But no leaders was as warmly received by the French spectators as Queen Elizabeth.

Weather had severely curtailed the naval and air bombardments that the Operation Overlord planners had hoped would ease the way of the Canadians and their British and American allies through Hitler’s Atlantic Wall. When they came ashore from thousands of landing craft and small ships after having made the short hop across the English Channel, the war-hardened German batteries were waiting for them.

“Only having run this deadly gauntlet could the survivors destroy the enemy strong points, and even then, only through savage hand-to-hand combat against some of the toughest soldiers in the world,” Harper said. “That is how they took the beach … Canadians were now to fight in Europe until Europe was free of fascism. And fight they did.”

Harper does not often deliver emotional speeches, but the one he gave on Juno Beach on Friday seemed to come very much from his heart.

“As a Canadian, reflecting on this achievement I can only feel two emotions that are not usually reckoned together: fierce pride and the deepest humility,” he said.

“Who were these men? What kept them going? Why did they do what they did? They came from all walks of life, from all parts of our great country. They were young, some still in their teens. And, as their British hosts found, they were boisterous and enthusiastic.

“But, they were united in a common cause. They wanted to see Europe free.”

Harper has often emphasized that Canada has a great tradition as a warrior nation and should not only be remembered as a nation of peacekeepers although that has often received more attention in schools and from the media. Returning to that theme on Friday, Harper said: “Then as now, Canadians understood why peacemakers are said to be blessed … So, they took up arms, these and a million other Canadians — men and women — who put on the uniform and beat their plowshares into swords.”

The prime minister has made a point of recalling Canada’s military achievements by returning the Royal Canadian Air Force and Royal Canadian Navy to their original names and bringing back rank insignias used during both world wars. However, despite talking tough on Russia and Ukraine and many other international issues, the Harper government has fallen 50 per cent short of the NATO goal of spending two per cent of the country’s GDP on defence.

That lack of spending on the military was glaringly obvious Friday, when the RCN could not muster a single warship to take part alongside British, American and French warships in the D-Day festivities. It has been a long fall from D-Day, when Canada had the fourth largest navy in the world.

However, 50 Canadian paratroopers took part in an air drop with American and British forces, as they all did 70 years ago.

“We have been greatly honoured to have had an opportunity to speak with some of our D-Day veterans,” said one of the Canadian jumpers, MCpl Stephen Fennelly of 1Field Ambulance Edmonton and Orleans, Ont. “They came here by land, and sea, and air and have told us their stories. When they extended their hands and thanked me for my service it was one of the most humbling things in my life.”

The Canadians dropped Thursday very close to the where the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion landed on June 6, 1944.

“As one of them told us, some of them didn’t exactly land where they wanted to,” said Fennelly, who like many of those who jumped had served in Afghanistan. “One guy told us he landed on a house, but he got up and got going,” he said.

“Something keeps dragging me back,” said Edgar Bedard, who landed on D-Day with the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa and who was visiting Normandy for the 12th time since the war. “It was just terrible when we reached shore. They were all shouting at us, ‘Get off the beach.’ ”

Pointing toward a house that was still standing in the distance, the spry 90-year-old added, “When we reached there 11 German P0Ws were inside. One of them said, “‘ Kanada is kaput.’ But we weren’t. We were off immediately on a road inland toward Caen.”

Donald Fowler, who came ashore on the second day with the Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Highlanders, had mixed feelings about returning to Juno Beach.

“The guys we left here were 17, 18, 19, like we used to be and they used to be my friends,” the 88 year old said. “But it is important to be here to explain the true history.”

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world-leaders-veterans-civilians-gather-in-normandy/feed0ceremonyfisherrmatthewd_day_preview_imageVeterans, world leaders honour D-Day’s fallen on 70th anniversary of Normandy invasionhttp://o.canada.com/news/veterans-world-leaders-honour-d-days-fallen-on-70th-anniversary-of-normandy-invasion
http://o.canada.com/news/veterans-world-leaders-honour-d-days-fallen-on-70th-anniversary-of-normandy-invasion#commentsFri, 06 Jun 2014 11:23:10 +0000http://postmediacanadadotcom.wordpress.com/?p=459248]]>COLLEVILLE-SUR-MER, France — Men who stormed Normandy’s shore 70 years ago joined world leaders Friday in paying tribute to the 150,000 Allied troops who risked and lost their lives in the D-Day landings in Nazi-occupied France, in a day of international commemorations of history’s biggest amphibious invasion.

They are honouring the troops and civilians who fell in mighty battles that helped bring Europe peace and unity — just as bloodshed in Ukraine is posing new challenges to European security and threatening a new East-West divide.

As the sun rose Friday over a gusty Omaha Beach, flags flew at half-staff. A U.S. military band played Taps, while D-Day veterans from the 29th Infantry Division and serving soldiers stood at attention at exactly 6:30 a.m., the moment on June 6, 1944, when Allied troops first waded ashore.

Hundreds of Normandy residents and other onlookers applauded the veterans, then began forming a human chain on the beach.

Britain’s Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, listens to the service during a ceremony at the Bayeux Cathedral, Normandy, France, Friday, June 6, 2014. (AP Photo/Leon Neal, pool)

World leaders and dignitaries including U.S. President Barack Obama and Queen Elizabeth II are converging on Normandy to honour the more than 150,000 American, British, Canadian and other Allied D-Day troops who risked and gave their lives to defeat Adolf Hitler’s Third Reich.

The D-Day invasion was a turning point in the Second World War, cracking Hitler’s western front as the Soviet troops made advances in the east. Overall at least 4,400 Allied troops were killed the first day, and many thousands more in the ensuing three-month Battle of Normandy, which brought the Allies to Paris to liberate the French capital from Nazi occupation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is also in attendance, invited by French President Francois Hollande in a gesture toward the 27 million Soviet citizens killed in the Second World War.

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper is embarking on a long journey along the Normandy coast to honour Canada’s contribution to the D-Day invasion.

The prime minister is starting his day by laying a ceremonial wreath at the Beny-sur-mer Canadian Cemetery, where more than 2,000 men killed on D-Day, most of them Canadian, are buried.

The D-Day commemorations are also offering a moment to try to reconcile Russia and Ukraine, and Russia and the West.

U.S. President Barack Obama participates in the 70th French-American Commemoration D-Day Ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer on June 6, 2014. (PASCAL ROSSIGNOL/AFP/Getty Images)

Putin is meeting German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Deauville on the Normandy coast Friday morning, after meeting Hollande and British Prime Minister David Cameron on Thursday night. Ukraine’s president-elect is also coming to Normandy, and there is hope he and Putin may meet, too.

The encounters marked the first time the isolated Russian leader has met Western leaders since pro-European protests in Kyiv pushed out Ukraine’s Russian-leaning president in February and Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula.

Back in Normandy, several thousand veterans, family members and others gathered at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, with its 9,387 white marble tombstones on a bluff overlooking the site of the battle’s bloodiest fighting at Omaha Beach, the emotional centrepiece of pilgrimages to honour the men killed in Normandy.

Soldiers of 173rd Airborne brigade, the ceremony organizers, served as ushers, wearing maroon berets. For the ceremony, small U.S. and French flags were placed in the ground at each grave.

Obama declared June 6 a national remembrance day.

People walk along British national flags on June 6, 2014 in Asnelles, Normandy, during a ceremony on the “Gold beach” where British troops landed on June 6, 1944 during the Operation Overlord. (JOEL SAGET/AFP/Getty Images)

In a declaration Friday, he said, “Seventy years later, we pay tribute to the service members who secured a beachhead on an unforgiving shore — the patriots who, through their courage and sacrifice, changed the course of an entire century. Today, as we carry on the struggle for liberty and universal human rights, let us draw strength from a moment when free nations beat back the forces of oppression and gave new hope to the world.”

In addition to the fallen troops, Allied bombardments killed an estimated 20,000 French civilians, and Hollande paid tribute to them Friday in Caen, which like many cities of Normandy was largely destroyed in the bombings.

France has only tentatively come to grips with the invasion’s toll on civilians. The Allied bombings — especially the deadly onslaught in Normandy during the invasion launched on D-Day — were used as a propaganda tool by the Vichy government. But historians now believe that nearly as many French civilians died in Allied air raids as Britons during the German Blitz.

Michel Colas (C) shows his grandsons Samuel Colas (L) and Rafael Schneider (R) the Normandy American Cemetery before the start of an official event with U.S. President Barack Obama on June 6, 2014 in Colleville-sur-Mer, France. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

“No one knew that this day would be the first of one of the most ferocious battles of France. This battle was also a battle of civilians,” Hollande said. He said Normandy’s residents “helped the victory happen. They opened their doors to the liberators.”

Ceremonies large and small are taking place across Normandy, ahead of an international summit on Friday in Ouistreham, a small port that was the site of a strategic battle on D-Day.

Today’s conflicts are also on many minds at the D-Day commemorations.

Jeffrey McIllwain, professor at the San Diego State University school of public affairs, will lay a wreath on behalf of educators who have lost students to wars in Iraq and Afghanistan — himself included.

US President Barack Obama and French President Francois Hollande (R) look out over Omaha Beach during the 70th French-American Commemoration D-Day Ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer, France, June 6, 2014. (SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images)

He, like many veterans and world leaders here, is concerned about keeping the memory of D-Day alive as the number of survivors dwindles.

He brought 12 students to Normandy for a course on the lessons of D-Day.

“I make them promise to bring their grandchildren to serve as a bridge to the next generation,” he said.

Meanwhile, Stephen Harper will end his day at Juno Beach where 18,000 Canadian troops launched their contribution to the massive Allied attack on Europe.

“It is difficult to understand the courage it took to advance through minefields and barbed wire under fire from mortars and machine guns in order to punch through Hitler’s Atlantic Wall; and yet that is exactly what many Canadians did,” Harper said in a statement prior to his arrival at the cemetery.

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth pays her respects after laying a wreath during the French-British ceremony at the British War cemetery in Bayeux, Normandy, France, Friday, June 6, 2014. (AP Photo/Toby Melville, pool)

“It is a source of enormous national pride that Canadians played such a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the D-Day landings, one of the greatest battles of the Second World War and a turning point in the world’s history,” he added.

“We are also deeply humbled by the enormous sacrifices made by our fellow citizens, who with grim determination, stood shoulder-to-shoulder with like-minded allies to fight evil.”

Canada’s D-Day tribute to the 359 Canadians who died on the first day of the battle was unveiled Thursday at the Juno Beach Centre. It is comprised of 359 maple tribute markers.

Some 130,000 U.S., British and Canadian troops stormed 80-kilometre stretch of beaches along the French channel coast to attack hundreds of Nazi troops in concrete fortified gun positions.

Canada suffered more than 18,000 casualties, with 5,000 killed in the two-and-a-half month campaign, which eventually led to Europe being wrestled free of German occupation.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/veterans-world-leaders-honour-d-days-fallen-on-70th-anniversary-of-normandy-invasion/feed0The-70th-Anniversary-Of-The-D-Day-Landings-Are-Commemorated-In-Normandy.jpgtheassociatedpresscanadaD-DayD-DayD-DayD-DayD-DayD-DayGallery: Queen Elizabeth’s speech a display of pomp and powerhttp://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-queen-elizabeths-speech-a-display-of-pomp-and-power
http://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-queen-elizabeths-speech-a-display-of-pomp-and-power#commentsWed, 04 Jun 2014 13:51:24 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=457565]]>LONDON — Queen Elizabeth unveiled the government’s legislative agenda for its final year in power Wednesday on a day that showcases Britain in grandest style — offering a sumptuous display of pomp and power.

The main ceremonial event of Parliament’s calendar is a moment of pride, replete with ermine and silk and evoking centuries of grandeur. Thousands of tourists lined the streets near the gothic spires of the Houses of Parliament to watch the parade of carriages in hopes of getting a glimpse of the monarch’s gloved hand.

The speech marks the final opportunity for the Conservative-led government of David Cameron to offer ideas ahead of the election set for 2015. A package of measures was offered — including laws making it simpler to recall wayward lawmakers and changes in pension plans.

The plans also included laws intended to safeguard people acting as Good Samaritans, protecting them in the case of lawsuits stemming from actions taken in an emergency. A bill was also announced to place a mandatory five-pence charge (about 8 cents) for supermarket bags.

Cameron and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg suggested the program was “unashamedly pro-work, pro-business and pro-aspiration.”

The monarch travelled in the resplendent new Diamond Jubilee State Coach. The coach, which was made in Australia, requires three grooms and six horses.

The coach’s interior is lined in yellow silk and is comprised of pieces donated by historic sites and organizations. The seat handrails, for example, are from the Royal Yacht Britannia, while the window frames and interior panels include material from Canterbury Cathedral, 10 Downing Street, and the Antarctic bases of Capt. Scott and Ernest Shackleton.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip ride in the Diamond Jubilee state coach. The State Opening of Parliament marks the formal start of the parliamentary year and the Queen’s Speech sets out the government’s agenda. Justin Tallis, AFP/Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth rides in the new Diamond Jubilee Coach as she departs Buckingham Palace en route to the Houses of Parliament. Lefteris Pitarakis, AP Photo.

A cleaner stops and bows his head to a Gentleman at Arms who walks passes by on his way to the Palace of Westminster to take a ceremonial role in the State Opening of Parliament. Alastair Grant, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

An Order of Service booklet resting on a chair during the State Opening of Parliament in the House of Lords. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Members of the ‘Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms’ prepare themselves in the Norman Porch of the Palace of Westminster prior to attending the State Opening of Parliament. Oli Scarff, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Yeomen of the Guard prepare to conduct the ceremonial search ahead of the State Opening of Parliament. Carl Court, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Yeomen of the Guard prepare to conduct the ceremonial search ahead of the State Opening of Parliament. Carl Court, WPA Pool/Getty Images

Yeomen of the Guard . Carl Court, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Yeomen of the Guard hold their lanterns prior to the arrival of the Queen. Carl Court, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

The ceremony is full of tradition, including thiese old-fashioned lanterns at the Guards’ feet. Carl Court, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

The Imperial State Crown arrives, prior to the arrival of Queen Elizabeth, at the Palace of Westminster, where the Queen will wear the crown as she delivers her speech. The State Opening of Parliament is an annual pageant of pomp and politics centred on the Queen’s Speech, a legislative program written by the government but read out by the monarch before a crowd of lawmakers, ermine-robed peers and ceremonial officials in bright garb evoking centuries past. Alastair Grant, Pool/AP Photo.

Queen Elizabeth’s crown arrives. Oli Scarff, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth’s crown is escorted through the Norman Porch of the Palace of Westminster before the State Opening of Parliament. Oli Scarff, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II arrives in the new Diamond Jubilee State coach, to deliver her speech, at the Palace of Westminster. Alastair Grant, Pool/AP Photo.

The Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, David Leakey, arrives at the House of Lords for the State Opening of Parliament at the Palace of Westminster. Suzanne Plunkett, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

The Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, David Leakey, knocks on the door to the House of Commons in the Members’ Lobby before the Queen’s Speech at the State Opening of Parliament. Queen Elizabeth unveiled the coalition government’s legislative program in a speech delivered to Members of Parliament and Peers in The House of Lords. Dan Kitwood, Getty Images.

Peers and guests sit in the House of the Lords as Queen Elizabeth arrives to deliver her speech. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip proceed through the Royal Gallery during the State Opening of Parliament. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth is unveiling the government’s legislative agenda for its final year in office on a day that showcases Britain in grandest style offering a sumptuous display of pomp and power. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip proceed through the Royal Gallery during the State Opening of Parliament in the House of Lords at the Palace of Westminster. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth delivers the Queen’s Speech from the Throne in the House of Lords flanked by Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall during the State Opening of Parliament at the Palace of Westminster. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.

Prince Charles and Camilla listen as Queen Elizabeth delivers the Queen’s Speech from the Throne in the House of Lords. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth, seated on the Throne in the House of Lords next to Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, prepares to deliver the Queen’s Speech. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth wears the Imperial State Crown as she delivers her speech in the House of Lords, during the State Opening of Parliament at the Palace of Westminster. Carl Court, Pool/AP Photo.

Queen Elizabeth, centre left, and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, proceed through the Royal Gallery, after the State Opening of Parliament, in the House of Lords. Yui Mok, Pool/AP Photo.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip are escorted through the Norman Porch of the Palace of Westminster to attend the State Opening of Parliament. Oli Scarff, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Queen Elizabeth smiles at Earl Marshall as she leaves the Palace of Westminster, after delivering the Queen’s Speech in the House of Lords. Alastair Grant, Pool/AP Photo.

Leader of the Labour Party Ed Miliband and British Prime Minister David Cameron walk through the Central Lobby after listening to the Queen’s Speech at the State Opening of Parliament. Matt Dunham, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Embroidery on the tunic of a trumpeter in the Norman Porch of the Palace of Westminster following the State Opening of Parliament. Oli Scarff, Getty Images.

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall waits for her carriage as she leaves the Palace of Westminster following the Queen’s Speech. Alastair Grant, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh ride in the Diamond Jubilee state carriage escorted by members of the Household Cavalry along the Mall back to Buckingham Palace after delivering the Queen’s Speech. Justin Tallis, AFP/Getty Images.

A Guard of Honour leaves Buckingham Palace after Queen Elizabeth II returned following the State Opening of Parliament. Matthew Lloyd/Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-queen-elizabeths-speech-a-display-of-pomp-and-power/feed0Queen Elizabeth II Attends The State Opening Of ParliamenttheassociatedpresscanadaA Guard of Honour lines up in formation outside Buckingham Palace. Matthew Lloyd, Getty Images.A police officer stands watch as a Guard of Honour marches past Buckingham Palace. Matthew Lloyd, Getty Images.Members of the RAF march past Buckingham Palace and down the Mall. Matthew Lloyd, Getty Images.A Guard of Honour leaves Buckingham Palace prior to the departure of Queen Elizabeth to attend the State Opening of Parliament. Matthew Lloyd, Getty Images.Prince Charles leaves Buckingham Palace to attend the State Opening of Parliament. Matthew Lloyd, Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth rides in the new Diamond Jubilee Coach as she departs Buckingham Palace. Lefteris Pitarakis, AP Photo.Queen Elizabeth leaves Buckingham Palace to attend the State Opening of Parliament. Matthew Lloyd, Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth leaves Buckingham Palace to attend the State Opening of Parliament. Matthew Lloyd, Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip in the Diamond Jubilee state coach. Adrian Dennis, AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth rides with Prince Philip in the Diamond Jubilee state coach. Adrian Dennis, AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip ride in the Diamond Jubilee state coach. The State Opening of Parliament marks the formal start of the parliamentary year and the Queen's Speech sets out the government's agenda. Justin Tallis, AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip ride in the Diamond Jubilee state coach from Buckingham Palace to Parliament. Justin Tallis, AFP/Getty Images.Britain's Queen Elizabeth II arrives in the new Diamond Jubilee State coach, to deliver her speech, at the Palace of Westminster. Alastair Grant, Pool/AP Photo.Prince Charles leaves Buckingham Palace to attend the State Opening of Parliament. Matthew Lloyd, Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth rides in the new Diamond Jubilee Coach as she departs Buckingham Palace en route to the Houses of Parliament. Lefteris Pitarakis, AP Photo.A cleaner stops and bows his head to a Gentleman at Arms who walks passes by on his way to the Palace of Westminster to take a ceremonial role in the State Opening of Parliament. Alastair Grant, WPA Pool/Getty Images.An Order of Service booklet resting on a chair during the State Opening of Parliament in the House of Lords. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Members of the 'Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms' prepare themselves in the Norman Porch of the Palace of Westminster prior to attending the State Opening of Parliament. Oli Scarff, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Yeomen of the Guard prepare to conduct the ceremonial search ahead of the State Opening of Parliament. Carl Court, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Yeomen of the Guard prepare to conduct the ceremonial search ahead of the State Opening of Parliament. Carl Court, WPA Pool/Getty ImagesYeomen of the Guard . Carl Court, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Yeomen of the Guard hold their lanterns prior to the arrival of the Queen. Carl Court, WPA Pool/Getty Images.The ceremony is full of tradition, including thiese old-fashioned lanterns at the Guards' feet. Carl Court, WPA Pool/Getty Images.The Imperial State Crown arrives, prior to the arrival of Queen Elizabeth, at the Palace of Westminster, where the Queen will wear the crown as she delivers her speech. The State Opening of Parliament is an annual pageant of pomp and politics centred on the Queen's Speech, a legislative program written by the government but read out by the monarch before a crowd of lawmakers, ermine-robed peers and ceremonial officials in bright garb evoking centuries past. Alastair Grant, Pool/AP Photo.Queen Elizabeth's crown arrives. Oli Scarff, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth's crown is escorted through the Norman Porch of the Palace of Westminster before the State Opening of Parliament. Oli Scarff, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Britain's Queen Elizabeth II arrives in the new Diamond Jubilee State coach, to deliver her speech, at the Palace of Westminster. Alastair Grant, Pool/AP Photo.The Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, David Leakey, arrives at the House of Lords for the State Opening of Parliament at the Palace of Westminster. Suzanne Plunkett, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Black Rod knocks on the door to the House of Commons in the Members' Lobby before the Queen's Speech at the State Opening of Parliament. Queen Elizabeth unveiled the coalition government's legislative program in a speech delivered to Members of Parliament and Peers in The House of Lords. Dan Kitwood, Getty Images.Peers and guests sit in the House of the Lords as Queen Elizabeth arrives to deliver her speech. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth arrives to deliver her speech. Suzanne Plunkett, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip proceed through the Royal Gallery. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip proceed through the Royal Gallery. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip proceed through the Royal Gallery. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip proceed through the Royal Gallery. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip proceed through the Royal Gallery during the State Opening of Parliament. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth is unveiling the government's legislative agenda for its final year in office on a day that showcases Britain in grandest style offering a sumptuous display of pomp and power. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip proceed through the Royal Gallery during the State Opening of Parliament in the House of Lords at the Palace of Westminster. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth delivers the Queen's Speech from the Throne in the House of Lords flanked by Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall during the State Opening of Parliament at the Palace of Westminster. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth delivers the Queen's Speech from the Throne. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth delivers the Queen's Speech from the Throne. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth delivers the Queen's Speech from the Throne. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.A general view of the House of Lords as Queen Elizabeth delivers her speech. Suzanne Plunkett, WPA Pool/Getty Images.The State Opening of Parliament marks the formal start of the parliamentary year and the Queen's Speech sets out the governments agenda for the coming session. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth delivers the Queen's Speech from the Throne. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.Prince Charles and Camilla listen as Queen Elizabeth delivers the Queen's Speech from the Throne in the House of Lords. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth, seated on the Throne in the House of Lords next to Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, prepares to deliver the Queen's Speech. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth wears the Imperial State Crown as she delivers her speech in the House of Lords, during the State Opening of Parliament at the Palace of Westminster. Carl Court, Pool/AP Photo.Queen Elizabeth, centre left, and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, proceed through the Royal Gallery, after the State Opening of Parliament, in the House of Lords. Yui Mok, Pool/AP Photo.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip leave the House of Lords. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip leave the House of Lords. Carl Court, Pool/AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip are escorted through the Norman Porch of the Palace of Westminster to attend the State Opening of Parliament. Oli Scarff, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth smiles at Earl Marshall as she leaves the Palace of Westminster, after delivering the Queen's Speech in the House of Lords. Alastair Grant, Pool/AP Photo.Leader of the Labour Party Ed Miliband and British Prime Minister David Cameron walk through the Central Lobby after listening to the Queen's Speech at the State Opening of Parliament. Matt Dunham, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Embroidery on the tunic of a trumpeter in the Norman Porch of the Palace of Westminster following the State Opening of Parliament. Oli Scarff, Getty Images.Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall waits for her carriage as she leaves the Palace of Westminster following the Queen's Speech. Alastair Grant, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh ride in the Diamond Jubilee state carriage escorted by members of the Household Cavalry along the Mall back to Buckingham Palace after delivering the Queen's Speech. Justin Tallis, AFP/Getty Images.A Guard of Honour leaves Buckingham Palace after Queen Elizabeth II returned following the State Opening of Parliament. Matthew Lloyd/Getty Images.Fisher: Western leaders mark D-Day with an aggressor in their midsthttp://o.canada.com/news/western-leaders-mark-d-day-with-an-aggressor-in-their-midst
http://o.canada.com/news/western-leaders-mark-d-day-with-an-aggressor-in-their-midst#commentsTue, 03 Jun 2014 18:06:05 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=457125]]>WARSAW — Vladimir Putin keeps turning up like a bad penny.

Kicked out of the Group of Eight two months ago over his swift annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, instead of hosting a scheduled gathering of those world leaders in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, the diminutive Russian president will still share centre stage with more or less the same cast, plus Queen Elizabeth, at the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landing in France this week.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting in the Kremlin in Moscow, on May 31, 2014. MIKHAIL KLIMENTYEV/AFP/Getty Images

Millions of Russians died in the Second World War and Soviet citizens suffered terribly through years of brutal fighting against Nazi Germany. But virtually all of the Red Army’s fighting was done in the east. Only one Soviet soldier is known to have been buried in a war grave on the Western Front.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper, who has arguably used the toughest language of any western leader to describe Putin’s recent behaviour in Ukraine, intends to ignore him in Normandy on Thursday. Ditto for U.S. President Barack Obama. But for the leaders of two of the biggest European countries in the NATO military alliance, it is as if Russia had never seized Crimea and does not continue to menace eastern Ukraine.

France — which is selling the Russian navy two helicopter assault ships for $1.6 billion, including one to be named the Sevastopol that will be based in the Crimean port city of that name — pointedly refused to disinvite Putin from the party it is hosting. In fact, President Francois Hollande is to have Putin over to dinner on Thursday in Paris. Britain’s David Cameron has arranged to have a private tete-a-tete with the man from the Kremlin at the conclusion of Friday’s ceremonies in Normandy.

A harsh irony of this week’s gathering to reflect on one of the seminal moments of the Second World War is that the very spot that was such a battleground 70 years ago has become a gathering place for leaders who do not wish to offend, let alone confront, Putin despite months of threats and bullying that have put European security equilibrium seriously off-kilter.

In a week rich with symbolism related to D-Day and the collapse of the Soviet Union, Poland is to celebrate the 25th anniversary of elections that ended four decades of Kremlin-led Communist rule. Harper arrived Tuesday night in Warsaw at the front end of a five-day visit to Europe to be part of these celebrations.

After meeting Wednesday with Poland’s revered Solidarity trade union leader Lech Walesa and Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Harper is to fly to Brussels for an emergency Group of Seven summit on Wednesday and Thursday that replaces the G-8 gathering that was to have taken place in Sochi. One of the top items at the G-7 will be whether to impose stiffer sanctions against Russia because it continues to keep some combat troops on its border with Ukraine while Russian nationals have made no secret that they are taking a much greater role in fighting Ukrainian forces in the east of that country.

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper gets into a waiting car as he arrives in Warsaw, Poland, early Wednesday June 4, 2014 THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

So far, front-line NATO states, from the Baltics to Romania, have expressed disappointment at the limited sanctions and military assistance announced by Canada, the U.S., the European Union and NATO. To try to mollify them, Obama went from a meet-and-greet with U.S. air force F-16 pilots in a hangar in Warsaw chosen for its optics to a meeting with nine leaders of states that border Russia or are nearby. He told them he intended to ask Congress to spend $1 billion to increase the number of U.S. troops in eastern Europe and would send U.S. navy warships more often into the Baltic and Black seas. Some of the money would also be earmarked to assist Ukraine, Georgia and tiny Moldova, where Russia has an army base, ostensibly to protect the interests of the Russian minority there.

But $1 billion split 12 ways does not go very far when Russia is spending tens of billions of dollars a year to upgrade its forces. It won’t do much, for example, to increase the U.S. troops’ presence in, say, Poland. Currently it has only a couple of hundred troops on the ground.

To show solidarity with NATO countries bordering Russia as they struggle to react to events in Russia and Ukraine, Canada has dispatched an infantry company to train in Poland, has a “six-pack” of CF-18 Hornets on exercise in Romania and has a frigate sailing near the mouth of the Black Sea.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/western-leaders-mark-d-day-with-an-aggressor-in-their-midst/feed1Harper and PutinfisherrmatthewRussia's President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting in the Kremlin in Moscow, on May 31, 2014. MIKHAIL KLIMENTYEV/AFP/Getty ImagesCanadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper gets into a waiting car as he arrives in Warsaw, Poland, early Wednesday June 4, 2014 THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian WyldGallery: Royal skirts gone with the windhttp://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-royal-skirts-gone-with-the-wind
http://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-royal-skirts-gone-with-the-wind#commentsTue, 27 May 2014 17:07:45 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=452972]]>Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, has found herself in the middle of another photo scandal about her skirts.

Earlier this week, German newspaper Bildpublished a photograph of the Duchess on tour in Australia last month.

Unfortunately, the image captured the moment when a gust of wind took hold of her skirt, revealing the future Queen’s bare bottom.

But this isn’t the first time Kate has been caught having skirt issues (she was once dubbed her “royal thighness” after a similar incident). In the aftermath of the Bild photo, many have commented that Kate has had windy troubles with her attire before, adding to suggestions that have been surfacing for some time that she ought to weight (and lengthen) her hemlines.

Here are a few occasions when Kate and other members of the Royal family have had to contend with breezy battles:

Kate’s skirt has a mind of its own as she speaks to soldiers as she arrives at Calgary Airport on July 7, 2011. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

Kate’s skirt gave her grief as she attended the Place2Be Forum at Canary Wharf on November 20, 2013 in London, England. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

Kate struggles to get control of her skirt as she and Prince William and Prince George arrive at Wellington Airport on April 7, 2014 in New Zealand. Hagen Hopkins, Getty Images.

Kate’s cream-coloured dress by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen blows in the wind as she and Prince William enjoy a walkabout at Province House in Charlottetown, P.E.I., on July 4, 2011. Wayne Cuddington, Ottawa Citizen.

A file photo shows Queen Elizabeth looking out over the Atlantic Ocean as her dress blows in the wind at Signal Hill in St John’s, Newfoundland. Dave Chan, AFP/Getty Images.

Princess Eugenie’s skirt appears ready to catch the wind as she attends the world premiere of the film ‘The Young Victoria’ with her mother, Sarah, Duchess of York, and her sister, Princess Beatrice. Max Nash, AFP/Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-royal-skirts-gone-with-the-wind/feed0The Duke And Duchess Of Cambridge Canadian Tour - Day 8thecanadadotcomKate's skirt has a mind of its own as she speaks to soldiers as she arrives at Calgary Airport on July 7, 2011. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Kate's skirt gave her grief as she attended the Place2Be Forum at Canary Wharf on November 20, 2013 in London, England. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Kate struggles to get control of her skirt as she and Prince William and Prince George arrive at Wellington Airport on April 7, 2014 in New Zealand. Hagen Hopkins, Getty Images.Kate's cream-coloured dress by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen blows in the wind as she and Prince William enjoy a walkabout at Province House in Charlottetown, P.E.I., on July 4, 2011. Wayne Cuddington, Ottawa Citizen.A file photo of a windswept Princess Diana, shown leaving her London health club. Gerry Penny, AFP/Getty Images.A file photo shows Queen Elizabeth looking out over the Atlantic Ocean as her dress blows in the wind at Signal Hill in St John's, Newfoundland. Dave Chan, AFP/Getty Images.Princess Eugenie's skirt appears ready to catch the wind as she attends the world premiere of the film 'The Young Victoria' with her mother, Sarah, Duchess of York, and her sister, Princess Beatrice. Max Nash, AFP/Getty Images.Gallery: A look back at the wedding of Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowleshttp://o.canada.com/news/gallery-a-look-back-at-the-wedding-of-prince-charles-and-camilla-parker-bowles
http://o.canada.com/news/gallery-a-look-back-at-the-wedding-of-prince-charles-and-camilla-parker-bowles#commentsThu, 15 May 2014 13:58:53 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=446425]]>As the royal couple embark on their tour of Canada, many will recall their long romance, and the day they were finally married. Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles celebrated their marriage on April 9, 2005 in St. George’s Chapel — Prince Charles had given his bride, thereafter known as the Duchess of Cornwall, a diamond engagement ring that had once been owned by his grandmother. Here is a look back at some of the best photos from their wedding.

The Clarence House official handout photo of the Prince of Wales and his new bride Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall in the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle. Hugo Burnand, Pool/Getty Images.

The Clarence House official handout photo of the the bride and groom with their families (L-R back row) Prince Harry, Prince William, Tom and Laura Parker Bowles (L-R front row) Duke of Edinburgh, Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II and Camilla’s father Major Bruce Shand, in the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle after the wedding ceremony. Hugo Burnand, Pool/Getty Images.

Prince Charles and his bride depart for Windsor Guildhall together to attend their Civil Ceremony where they were legally married . Scott Barbour, AFP/Getty Images.

The Royal family, Queen Elizabeth, Princess Beatrice, the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Harry and Prince Willam watch as Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall meet the public outside St. George’s Chapel in Windsor after the blessing of their civil marriage. Bob Collier, AFP/Getty Images.

Princess Eugenie watches her cousins, Princes William and Harry, talk as they watch their father, Prince Charles leave the Guildhall in Windsor with his new wife Camilla following their civil wedding ceremony. John Stillwell, AFP/Getty Images.

The front pages of English newspapers carry the story of the Royal wedding the day after. Odd Andersen, AFP/Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/gallery-a-look-back-at-the-wedding-of-prince-charles-and-camilla-parker-bowles/feed0TRH Prince of Wales & The Duchess Of Cornwall - Official Wedding PhotordunleyPrince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles arrive at Windsor Guildhall for their civil marriage ceremony. Adrian Dennis, AFP/Getty Images.Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall carries her bouquet as she leaves a blessing at St. George's Chapel. Toby Melville, AFP/Getty Images.Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, during their wedding blessing at Windsor Castle's St George's Chapel. Chris Young, AFP/Getty Images.The Duchess of Cornwall, formerly Camilla Parker Bowles, arrives at St. Georges Chapel in Windsor Castle. Martyn Hayhow, AFP/Getty Images.Prince Charles and his bride leave St George's Chapel following the church blessing of their civil wedding ceremony. Alastair Grant, AFP/Getty Images.Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall leave St. George's Chapel. Alastair Grant, AFP/Getty Images.The happy couple leave the Service of Prayer and Dedication following their marriage. ROTA-Pool/Getty Images.Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, formerly Camilla Parker Bowles, greet well wishers outside St. George's Chapel. Alastair Grant, AFP/Getty Images.Britain's Prince Charles and his bride Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall greet wellwishers following their marriage blessing. Alastair Grant, AFP/Getty Images.The Clarence House official handout photo of the Prince of Wales and his new bride Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall in the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle. Hugo Burnand, Pool/Getty Images.The Clarence House official handout photo of the the bride and groom with their families (L-R back row) Prince Harry, Prince William, Tom and Laura Parker Bowles (L-R front row) Duke of Edinburgh, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Camilla's father Major Bruce Shand, in the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle after the wedding ceremony. Hugo Burnand, Pool/Getty Images.Prince Charles and his bride depart for Windsor Guildhall together to attend their Civil Ceremony where they were legally married . Scott Barbour, AFP/Getty Images.The Royal family, Queen Elizabeth, Princess Beatrice, the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Harry and Prince Willam watch as Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall meet the public outside St. George's Chapel in Windsor after the blessing of their civil marriage. Bob Collier, AFP/Getty Images.Princess Eugenie watches her cousins, Princes William and Harry, talk as they watch their father, Prince Charles leave the Guildhall in Windsor with his new wife Camilla following their civil wedding ceremony. John Stillwell, AFP/Getty Images.The front pages of English newspapers carry the story of the Royal wedding the day after. Odd Andersen, AFP/Getty Images.Prince Charles and Camilla come ‘home’ to Canadahttp://o.canada.com/news/national/prince-charles-and-camilla-come-home-to-canada
http://o.canada.com/news/national/prince-charles-and-camilla-come-home-to-canada#commentsWed, 14 May 2014 15:21:40 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=445766]]>On their first trip to Canada as a married couple, the Duke and Duchess of Cornwallfaced a mob of anti-monarchy protesters in Montreal. The angry crowd forced the couple to enter an armoury, where they were to meet with veterans, through a back door.

And yet, as the riot police moved in, it is probably safe to say that even some Canadians who did not oppose the monarchy may have secretly harboured a little schadenfreude in seeing the couple suffer through a bit of hostility. In 2009, people were still adjusting to the union of the heir to the throne and his erstwhile mistress, Camilla Parker Bowles.

Riot Police break up an anti-royal protest in 2009. The protests caused the Royals to be 40 minutes late for their engagement as they entered the building by the back entrance. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

How things have changed. Even though a 2013 Forum Poll by the National Post found that 37 per cent of Canadians would still like to get rid of the monarchy, the same poll found that the birth of Prince George last summer has dulled republican sentiment in Canada. Add to that the rock-star status of Prince George’s parents and an obvious image overhaul for Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, and the latest royal visit to Canada — a four-day excursion beginning Sunday — promises to be much smoother.

While this tour, the couple’s third, won’t attract the same kind of public adulation and press coverage as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s recent tour of Australia and New Zealand, it is nonetheless significant in a number of ways — and casts the future monarch and his wife in a new light as they tour parts of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Manitoba.

“This tour is significant because these are the kinds of tours in the past that would have been undertaken by the Queen,” explains Carolyn Harris, a professor at the University of Toronto who is an expert in European monarchies. “She was there for key events in Canada’s history over the last 60-plus years … we’re seeing the Queen is cutting back her overseas travel and her children and grandchildren are representing her more and more.”

Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, has said the tour is really about “highlighting Canadian achievement — past, present and future” focusing on “activities that showcase special communities, individuals and groups from all across the country.”

“The reason we call it a homecoming is that it reinforces the fact that the Royal family are not foreign visitors to Canada,” says Robert Finch, Dominion Chairman of the League. “Rather, they are coming here as Canadians. They are coming ‘home’ to Canada.”

But the tour will also reveal a change in the couple’s public image since the 2009 tour, which was clearly not as successful as monarchy supporters might have hoped.

“It was November, the weather was bad and the itinerary wasn’t well publicized so they didn’t receive the sorts of crowds that often gather for royal tours. The 2009 trip was not as well received,” says Harris.

The royal tour of Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, suffered from poor weather in 2009. Aaron Lynett, National Post.

But by the time of their 2012 tour, the tide had begun to turn in their favour. It was “a huge success,” Finch says, and Harris thinks this can be attributed to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and a renewed interest in the monarchy following the 2011 wedding of Prince William and the popular Kate Middleton.

Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, received a much more enthusiastic welcome from Canadians on their 2012 tour. Mike Coppola, Getty Images.

And as the Duchess of Cornwall has taken on more solo assignments, she has gained confidence and earned new respect, both in Britain and here in Canada. The passage of time, and the tacit support of Princes William and Harry, have also helped end some of the animosity.

“Her figure has really grown on the public as time has passed and she has become more and more popular in her own right,“ says Harris.

The Duchess of Cornwall, walks past her official portrait that was unveiled during her inaugural visit as the new Colonel-in-Chief to The Queen’s Own Rifles at Moss Park Armoury in Toronto May 22, 2012. Mike Cassese, AFP/GettyImages.

Lynne Bell, who writes for Majesty magazine and is co-author of Queen and Consort: Elizabeth and Philip, agrees. She says there was tremendous pressure on the Duchess of Cornwall during the first Canadian visit in 2009, but that she has learned quickly on the job — and the couple’s obvious affection for one another has won people over.

“They care about each other, they are happy together, and I think that’s good energy … She is very much herself and I think people have seen her grow,” Bell says. “As far as a young romantic couple, William and Catherine, they’ve got the market cornered on that right now. So I think people are content to let this middle-aged couple be happy together and do their jobs.”

The couple’s obvious affection for one another has played well with the public, royal watchers say. Chris Jackson, File/Getty Images.

Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall share a laugh in Australia in 2012. Joe Castro, AFP/Getty Images.

But the spectre of Diana, the self-styled Queen of Hearts, still hovers. It is rare to see an online story about Camilla that isn’t followed by at least one or two comments referring to her perceived abuse of Diana. Even a story posted recently in Britain’s Daily Mail, featuring an image of the Duchess in tears at her brother’s funeral, brought out the venom.

“The acceptance of Charles and Camilla has been a slow and steady progression — and it’s probably still a work in progress,” says Finch. “But, I think they’re well over the hump, really. The more Canadians get to know Prince Charles the more they will warm to him and his wife.”

And a tour, says Harris, gives us that chance to get acquainted.

“It’s an opportunity for Canadians to see their future head of state engaging with Canadians and Canadian institutions,” she says. “So often when we hear about the royal family we hear about events at Buckingham Palace or Windsor and we see them in a British context, whereas their presence in Canada demonstrates their Canadian role as royalty within the Canadian Crown.”

Prince Charles and his wife Camilla visit the Aboriginal University in Regina during their last visit to Canada, on May 23, 2012. Paul Chiasson, The Canadian Press.

And, Finch says, we may even learn something about ourselves.

“When the Royals come to Canada we learn more about our country and ourselves because of the places they visit, the activities they do, the people they meet, and the events they commemorate. We wouldn’t pay attention to any of that if not for the presence of a member of the Royal Family.”

For more news and info about the Royal tour, follow @PostmediaRoyals

Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, tour the Distillery District in Toronto in May 2012. Mark Blinch, Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/national/prince-charles-and-camilla-come-home-to-canada/feed5Trooping the ColourrdunleyRiot Police break up an anti-royal protest in 2009. The protests caused the Royals to be 40 minutes late for their engagement as they entered the building by the back entrance. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.The royal tour of Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, suffered from poor weather in 2009. Aaron Lynett, National Post.Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, received a much more enthusiastic welcome from Canadians on their 2012 tour. Mike Coppola, Getty Images.The Duchess of Cornwall, walks past her official portrait that was unveiled during her inaugural visit as the new Colonel-in-Chief to The Queen's Own Rifles at Moss Park Armoury in Toronto May 22, 2012. Mike Cassese, AFP/GettyImages.The couple's obvious affection for one another has played well with the public, royal watchers say. Chris Jackson, File/Getty Images.Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall share a laugh in Australia in 2012. Joe Castro, AFP/Getty Images.Prince Charles and his wife Camilla visit the Aboriginal University in Regina during their last visit to Canada, on May 23, 2012. Paul Chiasson, The Canadian Press.Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, tour the Distillery District in Toronto in May 2012. Mark Blinch, Getty Images.Gallery: Queen Elizabeth goes casual at Royal Windsor Horse Showhttp://o.canada.com/news/gallery-queen-elizabeth-goes-casual-at-royal-windsor-horse-show
http://o.canada.com/news/gallery-queen-elizabeth-goes-casual-at-royal-windsor-horse-show#commentsThu, 15 May 2014 00:41:20 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=446081]]>No tiara. No fascinator. No nonsense.

Queen Elizabeth has always had a practical style and she showed it off for the opening of the Royal Windsor Horse Show on Wednesday. The Queen wore a smart blue kilt, pearls and sensible walking shoes as she attended the show, held in Berkshire. The 88-year-old monarch appeared to be having a grand time as she enjoyed the annual tradition. Here’s a selection of some of the best photos capturing the Queen at her casual best.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Steve Parsons, EPA.

Steve Parsons, EPA.

Steve Parsons, EPA.

Steve Parsons, EPA.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/gallery-queen-elizabeth-goes-casual-at-royal-windsor-horse-show/feed0Royal Windsor Horse ShowrdunleyWINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 14: Queen Elizabeth II attends the Royal Windsor Horse Show at Home Park on May 14, 2014 in Windsor, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images)Royal Windsor Horse ShowRoyal Windsor Horse ShowRoyal Windsor Horse ShowRoyal Windsor Horse ShowRoyal Windsor Horse ShowBen A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Steve Parsons, EPA.Steve Parsons, EPA.Steve Parsons, EPA.Steve Parsons, EPA.Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Ben A. Pruchnie, Getty Images.Has Canada seen the last of Queen Elizabeth? Don’t bet on ithttp://o.canada.com/news/has-canada-seen-the-last-of-queen-elizabeth-dont-bet-on-it
http://o.canada.com/news/has-canada-seen-the-last-of-queen-elizabeth-dont-bet-on-it#commentsWed, 14 May 2014 19:07:41 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=445929]]>The recent tour of Canada by Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall has put Canadian eyes back on the monarchy. It is the third visit by the couple (though Prince Charles has visited regularly since he was in his early 20s), and has led some to wonder whether we’ll ever see the Queen in Canada again now that her son seems to be standing in for her at overseas events.

Though she travelled to the Vatican in April and plans a three-day state visit to France for D-Day ceremonies in June, there is no doubt the Queen has cut back on her touring schedule in recent years.

She has not toured Canada for four years now, and, at 88, there is certainly some question as to whether she’ll set foot here again.

But royal experts are hesitant to say we’ll never see her on Canadian soil for another tour. In fact, many think it’s still very much a possibility in the near future.

Carolyn Harris, a royal historian at the University of Toronto, says while it’s true the Queen is making fewer and fewer overseas tours, royal fans shouldn’t give up hope just yet. After all, her then-91-year-old husband visited just last year.

Prince Philip receives his medal of Companion of the Order of Canada from Governor General David Johnston in Toronto on Friday April 26, 2013. Nathan Denette, The Canadian Press.

“Last year Prince Philip visited Toronto . . . and it was assumed that with his recent health problems that Prince Philip would not be travelling overseas, but he did undertake this tour, so it’s always possible we may see the Queen in Canada again.”

And Robert Finch, Dominion Chairman of the Monarchist League of Canada, says it’s a tough call, but a visit by the Queen is still very much a possibility. “Remember, the Queen Mother came to Canada when she was in her 90s,” he says. “It’s safe to say that she probably wouldn’t do a cross-country, but another a short trip to, say, Ottawa for a few days.”

Journalist Lynne Bell, author of Queen and Consort: Elizabeth and Philip, says Canada holds a special place in the heart of the Queen and there are some significant Canadian events coming up in the next few years that could warrant a visit.

“I would never say never with the Queen. Ever, ever,” says Bell, who writes for Majesty magazine. “I don’t know, but I wouldn’t write her off just yet. My bets are still on her.”

For more news and info about the Royals, follow @PostmediaRoyals

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/has-canada-seen-the-last-of-queen-elizabeth-dont-bet-on-it/feed1Queen Elizabeth II Visits Canada - Day 7rdunleyPope Francis welcomes Queen Elizabeth for a private audience in April 2014. Arthur Edwards, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Prince Philip receives his medal of Companion of the Order of Canada from Governor General David Johnston in Toronto on Friday April 26, 2013. Nathan Denette, The Canadian Press. Prince Charles stands in for Queen Elizabeth at Westminster Abbey servicehttp://o.canada.com/news/world/prince-charles-stands-in-for-queen-elizabeth-at-westminster-abbey-service
http://o.canada.com/news/world/prince-charles-stands-in-for-queen-elizabeth-at-westminster-abbey-service#commentsSat, 10 May 2014 01:12:57 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=443925]]>Buckingham Palace had said it would be a snapshot of history; the moment when the Queen would be photographed for the first time carrying out an ancient ritual during a gathering of a chivalric order.

The service is always attended by Prince Charles but he is joined every eighth year by the Queen, who was last present in May 2006. Adrian Dennis, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

Her Majesty’s Body Guard of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen muster in the Abbey cloisters ahead of the arrival of Queen Elizabeth. The Queen is Sovereign Head of the military order while Charles is its Great Master. It originated in the medieval period when the honour was only conferred on a knight after he had performed a number of rituals designed to purify the inner soul — fasting, vigils and prayer, and cleansing by bathing. Adrian Dennis, WPA Pool/Getty Images.

But the Queen unexpectedly delegated her duty to the Prince of Wales Friday after aides decided a flight of six steps would be too much for her to manage.

The Palace is sensitive about any suggestion that the Queen, who is 88, is slowing down because of her age but the unprecedented last-minute change of plan proved that the Royal household is tailoring official engagements to reduce the physical demands on the monarch. The Queen was at a service for members of the Order of the Bath at Westminster Abbey, an event she attends only every eight years.

Queen Elizabeth arrives for the Order of Bath service. Andy Rain, EPA.

The offering involves the sovereign, as head of the order, offering two gold and two silver coins to the dean of the abbey to represent the surrendering of worldly treasure and a knight’s duty to provide for the maintenance of the Church.

Dressed in a cumbersome robe with a train, worn over an evening dress, the Queen would have had to descend a short flight of steps to approach the altar in the Lady Chapel of Henry VII, then make her way back up them to her stall. Westminster Abbey had installed a remote camera in the Lady Chapel to capture the offering at close quarters for the first time. But after a dress rehearsal on Thursday, which the Queen did not attend, aides decided the Prince of Wales should carry out that part of the ceremony instead.

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales attends the Service of the Order of Bath at Westminster Abbey.

Andy Rain, EPA.

Andy Rain, EPA.

Prince Charles arrives for the Order of the Bath Service. Sang Tan, AP Photo.

A royal source said: “It was purely for the Queen’s comfort. After the rehearsal a decision was taken by the Royal household and the Queen that she would not carry out that particular ceremony.

“She still went up the steps to get to her stall and descended them at the end of the service, but this meant she only had to do that once.” The source added: “The ceremony involved a lot of walking and the Queen still played a very active part, but the steps involved are almost vertical and it was just thought that, wearing all the regalia, she should not take part in that particular moment.”

Buckingham Palace had earlier sent the media a photograph of a painting of George V carrying out the same ceremony, so that the two could be compared side by side.

But 75 minutes before the start, Palace staff announced that the Queen would remain in her stall for that part of the service. The Queen’s stall in the rear corner of the Lady Chapel is reached via six steep wooden steps, including a right-angled turn. The Queen had to squeeze through a gap less than 2ft wide at the top of the steps to get into the stall.

Despite the concern over the stairs yesterday, the Queen ascended a flight of 15 stone steps to get to the Lady Chapel at the back of the abbey. She also managed the six steps to her stall without any problems, unlike one of the elderly knights who tripped on his way up a similar flight inside the chapel. After the service, the Queen also walked down a steep flight of stone steps, holding a handrail, as she left the abbey with members of the order.

During a trip to the Vatican earlier this year, the Queen’s staff decided she should not visit part of the Pope’s residence because of the number of steps she would have needed to ascend. The monarch has given up long-haul travel, but otherwise the Palace has repeatedly insisted she is not scaling back her workload.

Yesterday’s hour-long service proved too much for one of the elderly Gentleman at Arms, who stand guard at the sides of the nave, who fainted as the congregation finished singing the National Anthem towards the end. He was attended to by Red Cross volunteers and taken away in an ambulance.

The Order of the Bath, created by George I in 1725, is the fourth most senior order of chivalry.

The Daily Telegraph

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/prince-charles-stands-in-for-queen-elizabeth-at-westminster-abbey-service/feed1Service Of The Order Of Bathpostmedianews1 The service is always attended by Prince Charles but he is joined every eighth year by the Queen, who was last present in May 2006. Adrian Dennis, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Her Majesty's Body Guard of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen muster in the Abbey cloisters ahead of the arrival of Queen Elizabeth. The Queen is Sovereign Head of the military order while Charles is its Great Master. It originated in the medieval period when the honour was only conferred on a knight after he had performed a number of rituals designed to purify the inner soul — fasting, vigils and prayer, and cleansing by bathing. Adrian Dennis, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth talks to the Dean of Westminster Abbey John Hall. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth arrives for the Order of Bath service. Andy Rain, EPA.Prince Charles, Prince of Wales attends the Service of the Order of Bath at Westminster Abbey. Andy Rain, EPA.Andy Rain, EPA.Prince Charles arrives for the Order of the Bath Service. Sang Tan, AP Photo.Queen Elizabeth walks through Westminster Abbey as Page of Honour Hugo Bertie carries her robes during the service. Adrian Dennis, AFP/Getty Images.Adrian Dennis, AFP/Getty Images.Prince Charles, Great Master of the Order, makes his offering of gold and silver at the altar of the Lady Chapel of King Henry VII. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth and Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, arrive at the Abbey. Adrian Dennis, AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth departs Westminster Abbey after attending the service. Adrian Dennis, AFP/Getty Images.Thrifty Prince William flies in the cheap seatshttp://o.canada.com/news/world/thrifty-prince-william-flies-in-the-cheap-seats
http://o.canada.com/news/world/thrifty-prince-william-flies-in-the-cheap-seats#commentsTue, 06 May 2014 15:33:09 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=441330]]>Gone are the days when Royals flew in private jets or sailed away on their private yacht, Britannia. These days, the future king flies coach.

Prince William, who had been in Memphis for the wedding of his friend, Guy Pelly, apparently took a domestic flight from the Tennessee city to Dallas while en route home to England. A Memphis reporter for Local 24 News, Eli Ross, happened to be on the same flight and tweeted an exclusive photo of the prince on board.

“On the American Airlines plane he took a window seat and is understood to have ordered water during the 1hour 30 domestic flight,” the Daily Mail reports. “Holding his hand luggage he boarded a plane separately to the rest of the passengers in Memphis, surrounded by security officers.The 31-year-old was then photographed at the Dallas airport wearing jeans, a pale blue shirt, white trainers and a baseball cap as he left the American Airlines Admiral Club.”

“While on official duties Princes William and Harry travel in first or business class, but this personal trip was funded privately by the Duke of Cambridge,” explained The Express. “This is not the first time the Royals have been spotted watching the pennies while travelling to a wedding — the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge took a Flybe flight from Edinburgh to Manchester for the wedding of Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall in 2011.”

Prince William’s wife, Duchess Kate, is known for recycling her clothes and buying off-the-rack dresses from Topshop. And his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, would undoubtedly be pleased to hear that William was being careful with money. Just this past January, the Guardian reported that the Queen’s royal household was “told by a Commons committee to reduce its costs and increase income after its cash reserves were found to be at a historic low.”

Both the Queen and her late mother have reputations for frugality. The Daily Telegraph reported one former aide’s recollection of just how thrifty the Queen Mother could be.

“‘I remember saying on one occasion, ‘Ma’am, the curtains in one of the upstairs bedrooms are rather falling to bits,'” the aide said. “She looked at me with a twinkle in her eye and said: ‘I think they will last a few more years.'”

Looking for more news on the Royal family? Follow @PostmediaRoyals

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/thrifty-prince-william-flies-in-the-cheap-seats/feed0Prince William Visits Australia - Day 1rdunleyHits and misses: Duchess Kate’s Down Under tour wardrobehttp://o.canada.com/life/fashion-beauty/gallery-hits-and-misses-in-kates-down-under-tour-wardrobe
http://o.canada.com/life/fashion-beauty/gallery-hits-and-misses-in-kates-down-under-tour-wardrobe#commentsThu, 24 Apr 2014 15:03:20 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=434355]]>LONDON — Kate’s dilemma: What to pack for a two-week trip, when your itinerary includes everything from state receptions and church services to toddler playdates and cricket games?

For the Duchess of Cambridge, who’s rounding up her trip to Australia and New Zealand with husband Prince William and eight-month-old son George, there were additional sartorial challenges: Do royals take off their shoes at the beach? And what’s the most ladylike way to climb into a fighter jet while in a pencil dress and high heels?

Here are the most talked-about fashion moments from Kate’s Down Under tour.

ALL GROWN UP

Over the past two weeks, Kate, 32, delighted fashionistas with a non-stop parade of stately suit dresses by top designers mixed with her favourite style staples: Blazers, wedges, simple court shoes and demure day frocks.

There’s also much more colour — bold, traffic-stopping hues — a choice that reflects her growing confidence, both as the face of a new generation of the British monarchy and as a style icon for women all over the world.

Among the hits: A minimalist dove-grey coat with structured shoulders by Alexander McQueen, worn with a matching hat to attend an Easter Sunday service.

“Kate’s Australian wardrobe choices has refined her take on regal chic, upping the polish and bringing a more ladylike and expensive sheen to her look,” said Katherine Ormerod, fashion editor at Grazia magazine.

CHIC BANANA

Kate mixed things up, with block colour outfits in bright shades straight from the crayon box: Canary yellow, vibrant green, sky blue, bright red. The standout look from the tour had to be the pencil dress in fluorescent yellow by Roksanda Ilincic.

This bright yellow dress, which Kate wore for the royal family’s arrival in Sydney, was a favourite of many. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

William and Kate arrive at the Cambridge Town Hall. Phil Walter, Getty Images.

Kate smiles as she meets the gathered crowds in Seymour Square during Day 4 of a Royal Tour to New Zealand. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

The royal family arrives in New Zealand. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

William wasn’t sure he liked it: Kate told reporters he remarked that it made her “look like a banana.” But fashion editors were thrilled by the choice.

“It’s a colour favoured by the queen, and designed to allow her to stand out in a crowd,” said Avril Mair of Harper’s Bazaar. “I liked her Emilia Wickstead aquamarine dress for the same reason. She carries off colour brilliantly and I’d like to see her wear more of it.”

Kate walks across the tarmac at Dunedin International Airport. Rob Jefferies, Getty Images.

DIPLOMATIC DRESSING

Dressing for state visits isn’t just about glitz and glamor: It’s also a time-honoured royal tradition of paying tribute to the host country. Like Queen Elizabeth II and the late Princess Diana before her, Kate incorporated elements of her host nations into her wardrobe.

A bespoke black Jenny Packham dress worn to a state reception in New Zealand was adorned with a silver fern — the country’s national emblem. While sticking to her go-to British labels like LK Bennett and Hobbs, Kate also showed off a white cotton dress from the Australian brand Zimmerman, as well as a navy tweed suit by New Zealand-born designer Rebecca Taylor.

Kate was praised for this simple but elegant Jenny Packham dress, featuring a delicate silver fern on the shoulder. Hagen Hopkins, AFP/Getty Images.

Kate wore this white eyelet dress for a day at an agricultural fair. Dean Lewins, EPA.

Kate, William and Prince George depart from the international airport in Wellington. Mark Tantrum, AFP/Getty Images.

SPORTY CASUAL

In between all those state dinners and solemn ceremonies, the duchess had outings to the beach, the vineyard and the zoo — as well as a hands-on cricket match and a yachting challenge.

Ryan Pierse, Getty Images.

Arthur Edwards, Pool/Getty Images.

Kate picks up a toy bilby Prince George of Cambridge threw on the ground as Prince William holds Prince George. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

Martin Hunter, Getty Images.

Casual wear is where Kate’s choice of attire didn’t get so much love from the fashion world.

William and Kate at “rippa rugby” in Dunedin, New Zealand. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

The British media noted that one of her dress-down outfits — skinny jeans, a navy nautical-style blazer, a striped top and wedge shoes — was the exact same look she wore for at least two past sporty engagements in London.

Kate onboard a Team New Zealand yacht. Jason Oxenham, Getty Images.

Kate loves her wedges. Arthur Edwards, Pool/Getty Images.

“No one wants to be remembered for thinking that cork-soled wedges are the epitome of sporting chic,” the Telegraph said.

RETHINKS FOR THE NEXT TOUR

First impressions count: When Kate touched down in New Zealand wearing a scarlet military style coat and matching pillbox hat, the outfit drew unkind comparisons to an air hostess’s uniform.

Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, smiles at the official welcome ceremony at Government House, in Wellington, New Zealand, Monday, April 7, 2014. Ross Setford, AP Photo/SNPA.

And those 4-inch wedges were the subject of much amusement when Kate sported them running at Sydney’s Manly Beach — a rather incongruous picture among the surfers and lifeguards.

Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

The now-infamous shoes worked even less well when the royal couple visited a vineyard, causing a brief stumble on the grassy grounds.

Kate stumbles as she walks through the vineyard with Prince William. Its unclear if this happened before or after the wine tasting. Arthur Edwards, Pool/Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/life/fashion-beauty/gallery-hits-and-misses-in-kates-down-under-tour-wardrobe/feed2The Duke And Duchess Of Cambridge Tour Australia And New Zealand - Day 16theassociatedpresscanadaKate wore this navy and white print dress in the Blue Mountain region of Australia. Paul Miller, EPA.Kate wore pale rose for her day in Adelaide. Daniel Kalisz, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.The Duchess waves to by standers as she walks along the Kuniya walk at Uluru. Rob Griffith, Pool/EPA.Kate arrives at the National Indigenous Training Academy. Scott Barbour, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.William and Kate arrive at the Cambridge Town Hall. Phil Walter, Getty Images.Kate smiles as she meets the gathered crowds in Seymour Square during Day 4 of a Royal Tour to New Zealand. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Kate walks across the tarmac at Dunedin International Airport. Rob Jefferies, Getty Images.Hagen Hopkins, AFP/Getty Images.Dean Lewins, EPA.Kate, William and Prince George depart from the international airport in Wellington. Mark Tantrum, AFP/Getty Images.Ryan Pierse, Getty Images.Arthur Edwards, Pool/Getty Images.Kate picks up a toy bilby Prince George of Cambridge threw on the ground as Prince William holds Prince George. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Martin Hunter, Getty Images.William and Kate at "rippa rugby" in Dunedin, New Zealand.Kate onboard a Team New Zealand yacht. Jason Oxenham, Getty Images.Kate loves her wedges. Arthur Edwards, Pool/Getty Images.Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, smiles at the official welcome ceremony at Government House, in Wellington, New Zealand, Monday, April 7, 2014. Ross Setford, AP Photo/SNPA.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Kate stumbles as she walks through the vineyard with Prince William. Its unclear if this happened before or after the wine tasting. Arthur Edwards, Pool/Getty Images.Royal Chat: The Palace’s PR Couphttp://o.canada.com/news/world/royal-chat-the-palaces-pr-coup
http://o.canada.com/news/world/royal-chat-the-palaces-pr-coup#commentsMon, 21 Apr 2014 15:58:55 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=432271]]>The royal tour of New Zealand and Australia has been a spectacular success for the monarchy.

With thousands turning out to see the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George’s face appearing on front pages around the world, it has been a PR coup for the palace.

As the tour winds down, we’ll talk to royal experts and historians about what went on behind the scenes, the new portrait of Queen Elizabeth (who turned 88 this week) and the upcoming visit to Canada of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/royal-chat-the-palaces-pr-coup/feed0The Duke And Duchess Of Cambridge Tour Australia And New Zealand - Day 14rdunleyDuchess Kate wears white-hot $1,600 dress for final night in Australiahttp://o.canada.com/news/world/duchess-kate-wears-white-hot-1600-dress-for-final-night-in-australia
http://o.canada.com/news/world/duchess-kate-wears-white-hot-1600-dress-for-final-night-in-australia#commentsThu, 24 Apr 2014 12:57:00 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=434263]]>The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge capped off their tour of Australia with a black-tie reception hosted by Australia’s Governor General on Thursday evening.

William and Kate attend the reception hosted by Governor General Peter Cosgrove and Her excellency Lady Cosgrove at Government House. Stefan Postles, Getty Images.

Stefan Postles, Getty Images.

Stefan Postles, Getty Images.

The royal couple with Governor General Peter Cosgrove and Lady Cosgrove. Stefan Postles, Getty Images.

“In one of the final events of their three-week tour, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended a party at Yarralumla, the Government House residence of the Australian head of state, Governor General Sir Peter Cosgrove in Canberra,” reported the Daily Mail. “Leaving nine-month-old George behind in the care of the nanny, the royal couple greeted guests, who included Australia’s surviving Victoria Cross recipients as well as artists, athletes and charity officials.”

The Australian said the royal couple walked “down from their suite at government house in Yarralumla to the drawing room where a hundred guests from the arts, business, charity, conservation and sporting fields stood by to greet them,” including Football Federation Australia CEO David Gallop and INXS rocker Kirk Pengilly.

Stefan Postles, Getty Images.

Kate speaks with guests. Stefan Postles, Getty Images.

Kate’s sophisticated white dress, though not by an Australian designer as some had expected, was widely praised. And while she has worn her hair loose for most engagements, the Duchess opted for a more formal chignon for the reception, allowing her to show off her drop-diamond earrings.

“Kate looked elegant in a white cocktail dress by Lela Rose. The white circle lace trim dress, which retails at £869 ($1,610 Canadian), features a graphic effect to the sleeves and peplum waist over a beautifully fitted sheath dress. The Duchess competed her outfit with a black clutch bag and matching heels, and wore her hair up in a chic updo,” said Hello! Magazine. “It’s thought to be the first time that Kate was worn a creation by Dallas-born Lela who first garnered attention when she designed the outfits worn by Jenna and Barbara Bush at their father’s presidential inauguration.”

Stefan Postles, Getty Images.

Stefan Postles, Getty Images.

Stefan Postles, Getty Images.

Stefan Postles, Getty Images.

The royal couple met Australia’s three serving Victoria Cross recipients and listened to a speech by Sir Peter, who said he was “delighted” the couple would be able to participate in services to mark Anzac day on Friday in Canberra.

“Sir Peter highlighted the parallels between the Cambridges’ trip and the 1927 tour of Australia by William’s great grandparents the Duke and Duchess of York, later George VI and Queen Elizabeth — eventually the Queen Mother,” the Express reported. “The Governor General added: ‘Accounts of their visit note the deafening cheers of the crowds, the fervent and spontaneous greetings of those they met and the Duchess won hearts from the start — all words that could describe the last couple of weeks.'”

A little over a week ago, Calgarian Anne Tingle was surprised to find an “odd-looking package” in her mailbox.

Inside a plastic sleeve emblazoned with Canada Post’s logo were two pieces of brown corrugated cardboard taped together on all four sides and an apology.

“Dear customer,” it read, “we sincerely regret that your mail item is damaged. It was found in this condition in the mail stream. We realize your mail is important to you and we are always concerned when mail entrusted to our care is damaged.”

Puzzled, Tingle tore apart the two pieces of cardboard. “What kind of fresh hell is this?’ ” she thought to herself.

Inside was a yellowed envelope addressed to her with a six-cent stamp portraying a much younger-looking Queen Elizabeth and a 1969 postmark.

While her name and the street address on the envelope were correct, the house number was wrong and there was no city, province or postal code.

The letter was penned by Tingle’s then nine-year-old sister, Esther, offering her thanks for a summer stay at her sister’s house in Calgary.

Anne Tingle, above, received this letter in the mail recently from her youngest sister who mailed it from Lethbridge, Alberta 45 years ago. Mailed in 1969, Tingle hasn’t learned where the letter was for all those years.

“I had just had my second baby and (Esther) was sent up to be a mother’s helper,” said Tingle.

At the time, Esther was living in Lethbridge, which is about 214 kilometres southeast of Calgary.

Had the letter travelled that route it would have been moving at roughly 0.0005 km/h over its 45-year journey.

Snails, in comparison, have been clocked at a (relatively) blistering 0.048 km/h. At that speed, the overdue letter would have arrived in just over two years.

“Actually, the letter could have walked that fast just tumbling with the tumbleweeds,” Tingle added.

Granted, the address was incomplete and Tingle has long since moved homes and is taking the incident in good humour — as is her sister Esther.

“‘Oh, I was adorable when I was nine,’ ” Tingle recalled as her younger sister’s reaction to learning her letter had, finally, been delivered.

The incident hasn’t swayed Tingle from using Canada Post.

“I’m so impressed with them,” she said. “They had to figure out which province and city, my street address and then get it to me … And they did it all for six cents.”

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/better-late-than-never-canada-post-takes-45-years-to-deliver-letter/feed0Late letterpostmedianews1Anne Tingle, above, received this letter in the mail recently from her youngest sister who mailed it from Lethbridge, Alberta 45 years ago. Mailed in 1969, Tingle hasn’t learned where the letter was for all those years.Queen Elizabeth looking great on the cusp of 88http://o.canada.com/news/world/queen-88-in-2014
http://o.canada.com/news/world/queen-88-in-2014#commentsSun, 20 Apr 2014 12:45:10 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=431820]]>LONDON – A portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by renowned British photographer David Bailey has been unveiled to mark the monarch’s 88th birthday.

The black-and-white photograph, taken at Buckingham Palace in March, shows the queen smiling broadly. Bailey described his subject as a “very strong woman” with “very kind eyes with a mischievous glint.”

The portrait, unveiled Sunday for the queen’s birthday on Monday, was commissioned for a government campaign to promote Britain’s heritage and tourism to potential visitors abroad.

Britain’s monarchy and royal history is one of the biggest drivers of its strong tourism industry.

The queen celebrates two birthdays each year: Her actual one on Apr. 21 is celebrated privately, while a public ceremony in June marks the occasion with a Trooping the Color parade in London.

David Bailey

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/queen-88-in-2014/feed1This portrait of Queen Elizabeth II taken and made available at 12:00 GMT Sunday, April 20, 2014, by British photographer David Bailey has been released to mark her 88th birthday on Monday April 21, 2014. The photograph was taken at Buckingham Palace in March and was commissioned on behalf of the British Government's GREAT Britain campaign. The image will be used in activity to support the GREAT campaign, which aims to generate jobs and growth through highlighting internationally Britain as a world-class destination for trade, tourism, investment and education.theassociatedpresscanadaThis portrait of Queen Elizabeth II taken and made available at 12:00 GMT Sunday, April 20, 2014, by British photographer David Bailey has been released to mark her 88th birthday on Monday April 21, 2014. The photograph was taken at Buckingham Palace in March and was commissioned on behalf of the British Government's GREAT Britain campaign. The image will be used in activity to support the GREAT campaign, which aims to generate jobs and growth through highlighting internationally Britain as a world-class destination for trade, tourism, investment and education.Long live the Queen! Elizabeth turns 88http://o.canada.com/news/long-live-the-queen-elizabeth-turns-88
http://o.canada.com/news/long-live-the-queen-elizabeth-turns-88#commentsMon, 21 Apr 2014 02:22:01 +0000http://postmediacanadadotcom.wordpress.com/?p=432031]]>The Queen will be 88 on Monday. Long live the Queen!

That’s what we want and, happily, having seen Her Majesty at close quarters last week, I reckon that’s what we are going to get.

Queen Elizabeth poses with the royal sceptre on June 2, 1953 after being crowned at Westminter Abbey. Elizabeth was proclaimed Queen in 1952 at age 25. STF/AFP/Getty Images.

Indeed, the actress Angela Lansbury, also 88, who came face to face with the Queen when she collected her DBE last week, tells me: “She’s clearly fighting fit. She has that incredible stamina and that flawless complexion. She’s a marvel.” It takes one remarkable old trouper to recognize another.

The late Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother lived to be 101, and there is no reason to think that the Queen – with a better diet and more vigorous lifestyle – won’t live even longer. On September 11 next year, Elizabeth II is set to outlast Queen Victoria by becoming the longest-reigning monarch in our history.

And the Queen, as she approaches her 10th decade, is a lot busier than her great-great-grandmother ever was. This month alone she has hosted an assortment of receptions and dinner parties, unveiled plaques, greeted ambassadors, saluted sea cadets, flown to Rome for lunch with the Italian president and to meet the new Pope, and hosted a three-day state visit by the President of Ireland.

Queen Elizabeth attends an audience with Pope Francis on April 3, 2014 in the Vatican. Oli Scarff, Getty Images.

The visit was based at Windsor Castle, as were last week’s investitures and “credentials” (the name the Palace gives to a morning when HM is meeting and greeting arriving and departing ambassadors, High Court judges and the like). Her calendar remains crowded, but a lot more is happening closer to home. Long-haul flights are now off the sovereign’s agenda, and Prince Charles, Prince William and Princess Anne are handing out the honours with increasing regularity. Even so, HM remains fully alive to her position and her duty. A state visit to France is coming up in five weeks’ time, and the Queen will be centre-stage for the commemoration of the D-Day landings in Normandy on June 6.

A few years ago, when I was writing a biography of the Queen and Prince Philip, I detected a definite rivalry between the royal press offices. The Queen’s people at Buckingham Palace did not like to be upstaged by the Prince of Wales’s operatives at Clarence House. I was not surprised, therefore, to note that down in New Zealand recently, bonnie Prince George was kept firmly under wraps and away from the media until, here at home, the coverage of the Irish president’s visit was off the front pages.

The Queen knows that she has made a unique contribution to the Irish peace process, and that is a source of satisfaction to her. When she was photographed at Windsor shaking hands with Martin McGuinness, some commentators expressed surprise – disgust, even – that she should be ready to entertain men associated with past terrorism, including the murder of members of her own family. They do not know the Queen. Forgiveness is central to her faith, and her faith is central to her life. She says, uncompromisingly: “The teachings of Christ and my own personal accountability before God provide a framework in which I try to live my life.”

On Maundy Thursday, the Queen and Prince Philip were on duty at Blackburn Cathedral in Lancashire. On Easter Sunday, Her Majesty, in private, will have been up at 6 a.m. and saying her prayers. She is not Defender of the Faith in name only. I imagine her prime minister David Cameron’s assertion last week that we need to restore the Christian faith to its proper place at the heart of our communities will have met with royal approval. It goes entirely unnoticed, but regularly the Queen presents copies of the Bible to children who have won prizes for religious instruction.

She is sustained by faith and driven by duty. Is she happy? Yes, and what makes her happy is, quite simply, her passion for her horses. Anyone who recalls seeing the photograph of the Queen taken at the moment when her horse, Estimate, won the Ascot Gold Cup last year will have seen a picture of unconfined joy. As the Duke of Edinburgh once famously remarked, “If it doesn’t fart or eat hay, she isn’t interested.” Her evenings are often clear and when they are, after dinner, one or other of her trainers can expect a call at 8.45pm to talk through the state of her stable and the prospects for the rides ahead.

When I wrote my book about the Royal couple, people would often ask me, “What’s the Queen really like?”, and be a little disappointed when I replied, “Much as you would expect an English – or Scottish – countrywoman of her class and generation to be”.

Horses, dogs, kindliness and community service count with her. She is even-tempered, “immensely tolerant” (Prince Philip’s phrase), pragmatic (not introspective), conservative (with radical flourishes), with an understated sense of humour (her turn with James Bond for the London Olympics opening ceremony took even her family by surprise) and a gimlet eye that can tell at a glance the difference between the decent and true and the pushy and unreliable. That dazzling smile is a knock-out. When it is withdrawn, it is quite alarming.

I get the impression that today, the Queen is happier in herself than she was even 10 years ago. Her husband is as amusing (and contrary) as ever. He also is remarkably robust. (I saw him at St James’s Palace the other day. He strode into the room at an impressively defiant pace.) Family life is good. Edward and Sophie are on hand for cosy suppers. Camilla turns out to be great fun. The opinion polls have the House of Windsor riding high and, Down Under, William and Catherine are securing the Commonwealth for at least another generation.

What does the future hold? More of the same, of course. The Queen is a creature of habit. Year in, year out, her routine rarely varies. She doesn’t do the unexpected.

Amazingly, on all her travels, she has only made two unscheduled stops. Once was in Canada, when adverse weather conditions forced her plane to make an unplanned landing. And the other was in 1981, when the royal Rolls was caught in a snowdrift in Gloucestershire and Her Majesty took refuge in a roadside public house in Chipping Sodbury. (She went in via the fire escape and enjoyed a gin and tonic.)

She will be travelling less in future, but she is not going to disappear. Far from it. At 88, her commitment and staying power are extraordinary. When it counts, she will still be there for us, essentially doing what she has done for the past 64 years. I think she does it so well because she believes in it. And because she believes in it, we believe in her.

The Sunday Telegraph

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/long-live-the-queen-elizabeth-turns-88/feed1BRITAIN-IRELAND-DIPLOMACY-ROYALSpostmedianews1Queen Elizabeth poses with the royal sceptre on June 2, 1953 after being crowned at Westminter Abbey. Elizabeth was proclaimed Queen in 1952 at age 25. STF/AFP/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth meets guests, including Dame Angela Lansbury during the Dramatic Arts reception at Buckingham Palace on February 17, 2014. Yui Mok, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth attends an audience with Pope Francis on April 3, 2014 in the Vatican. Oli Scarff, Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth with Ireland's President Michael D Higgins (R) greet Northern Ireland's Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness (L), First Minister Peter Robinson (2nd L) and Britain's Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Theresa Villiers (3rd L) during a Northern Ireland-themed reception at Windsor Castle on April 10, 2014. Luke MacGregor, WPA Pool/Getty Images.Queen Elizabeth holds the Gold Cup after Ryan Moore riding Estimate won The Gold Cup. Chris Jackson, Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse.Photos April 20: Top images from around the worldhttp://o.canada.com/news/photos-april-20-top-images-from-around-the-world
http://o.canada.com/news/photos-april-20-top-images-from-around-the-world#commentsSun, 20 Apr 2014 20:02:15 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=431855]]>The day’s best photos, as selected by editors at Postmedia News, are a stunning collection of the greatest images from around the world

Pope Francis greets the faithful as he holds Easter Mass in St. Peter’s Square on April 20, 2014 in Vatican City, Vatican. Pope Francis is attending the Holy Week for his second time as a Pontiff. (Photo by Franco Origlia/Getty Images)

The Rev. Mark Twietmeyer, of Trinity Lutheran Church, stands before the sermon at the Boulder Reservoir for the Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 20, 2014, in Boulder, Colo. (AP Photo/The Daily Camera, Cliff Grassmick)

Christian Orthodox worshippers look up as a ray of light comes through a skylight in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem’s old city on April 19, 2014 during the “Holy Fire” ceremony on the eve of the Orthodox Easter. (AFP PHOTO/GALI TIBBON/AFP/Getty Images)

Asier Jimenez, 8, stands, dressed as an angel, during the Easter Sunday ceremony ”Descent of the Angel”, during Holy Week in the small town of Tudela, northern Spain, Sunday, April 20, 2014. (AP Photo/Alvaro Barrientos)

A Bosnian Serb kisses the cross during the liturgy on Orthodox Easter Sunday, April 20, 2014, in the Orthodox Church in Tuzla, 120 kms north of Sarajevo. Bosnian Serbs celebrate Orthodox Easter according to the Julian calendar. (AP Photo/Amel Emric)

Worshippers join together for a sunrise service at the No Fences Cowboy Church Easter Sunday, April 20, 2014 in Falkville, Alabama. Cowboys on horseback greet the sunrise and arriving worshippers. (AP Photo/The Decatur Daily, Gary Cosby Jr.)

Guests leave after attending the Easter Matins at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, west of London, on April 20, 2014. Queen Elizabeth II will celebrate her 88th birthday Monday April 21, 2014. (LOLI SCARFF/AFP/Getty Images)

Filipino firefighters walk on the roof of a house as a huge fire rages through a slum area in Manila on April 20, 2014. Almost 1,000 families were affected by the fire according to local media reports. (NOEL CELIS/AFP/Getty Images)

A man smokes a joint at the Fill the Hill marijuana rally on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Sunday, April 20, 2014. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang)

Big Day to celebrate as thousand gathered in front of Vancouver Art Gallery to take part in the 420 Marijuana smoke in here in Vancouver on April 20, 2014. (Mark van Manen/PNG StaffPhotographer)

Big Day to celebrate as thousand gathered in front of Vancouver Art Gallery to take part in the 420 Marijuana smoke in here in Vancouver on April 20, 2014. (Mark van Manen/PNG StaffPhotographer)

A participant displays her outfit during the annual Easter Parade on Fifth Avenue in New York on April 20, 2014. The annual parade has been a New York tradition since the late 1880s, during which participants gather, donning all mode of spring finery and hat, from wacky to traditional. (EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images)

Dressed for the occasion, Michelle White poses for photographs as she makes her way along New York’s Fifth Avenue during the Easter Parade, Sunday, April 20, 2014. (AP Photo/Tina Fineberg)

A participant displays her outfit during the annual Easter Parade on Fifth Avenue in New York on April 20, 2014.(EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images)

Participants display their outfits during the annual Easter Parade on Fifth Avenue in New York on April 20, 2014. (EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images)

Guards attend Easter Mass held by Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square on April 20, 2014 in Vatican City, Vatican. Pope Francis is attending the Holy Week for his second time as a Pontiff. (Photo by Franco Origlia/Getty Images)

Members of the national police confront demonstrators during a protest against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas on April 20, 2014. Hundreds of Venezuelans marched in Caracas on Easter Sunday for the “resurrection of democracy” in a new day of protests against the government of Nicolas Maduro, which began more than two months ago and have a balance of 41 dead. “. (JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)

Members of the national police confront demonstrators during a protest against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas on April 20, 2014. “. (JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)

Member of the national police confront demonstrators during a protest against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas on April 20, 2014. (FEDERICO PARRA/AFP/Getty Images)

A bull falls upside down in front of Spanish bullfighter Antonio Nazare during a bullfight on the occasion of Easter Sunday at Las Ventas bullring in Madrid, central Spain, 20 April 2014. (EPA/CHEMA MOYA)

A Thai villager paddles boat as he fishing at lake in Udon Thani province on April 4, 2014.( PORNCHAI KITTIWONGSAKUL/AFP/Getty Images)

Relatives of victims of the South Korean ferry ‘Sewol’ sit before the sea at Jindo harbour on April 20, 2014. Divers began to locate bodies on April 19 inside a submerged South Korean ferry as the detained captain defended his decision to delay evacuation of the ship when it capsized nearly four days ago with 476 people on board. (ED JONESED JONES/AFP/Getty Images)

Ivorians bathe in a polluted body of water that flows through the Ebrie Lagoon in Abidjan on April 19, 2014. The level of pollution in the lagoon has increased in recent years due to the discharge of sewage from nearby urban areas. (SIA KAMBOU/AFP/Getty Images)

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/photos-april-20-top-images-from-around-the-world/feed1Easter Photo Gallerypostmedianews1Pope Francis greets the faithful as he holds Easter Mass in St. Peter's Square on April 20, 2014 in Vatican City, Vatican. Pope Francis is attending the Holy Week for his second time as a Pontiff. (Photo by Franco Origlia/Getty Images) The Rev. Mark Twietmeyer, of Trinity Lutheran Church, stands before the sermon at the Boulder Reservoir for the Easter Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 20, 2014, in Boulder, Colo. (AP Photo/The Daily Camera, Cliff Grassmick)Christian Orthodox worshippers look up as a ray of light comes through a skylight in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem's old city on April 19, 2014 during the "Holy Fire" ceremony on the eve of the Orthodox Easter. (AFP PHOTO/GALI TIBBON/AFP/Getty Images)Asier Jimenez, 8, stands, dressed as an angel, during the Easter Sunday ceremony ''Descent of the Angel'', during Holy Week in the small town of Tudela, northern Spain, Sunday, April 20, 2014. (AP Photo/Alvaro Barrientos)A Bosnian Serb kisses the cross during the liturgy on Orthodox Easter Sunday, April 20, 2014, in the Orthodox Church in Tuzla, 120 kms north of Sarajevo. Bosnian Serbs celebrate Orthodox Easter according to the Julian calendar. (AP Photo/Amel Emric) Worshippers join together for a sunrise service at the No Fences Cowboy Church Easter Sunday, April 20, 2014 in Falkville, Alabama. Cowboys on horseback greet the sunrise and arriving worshippers. (AP Photo/The Decatur Daily, Gary Cosby Jr.) Guests leave after attending the Easter Matins at St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle, west of London, on April 20, 2014. Queen Elizabeth II will celebrate her 88th birthday Monday April 21, 2014. (LOLI SCARFF/AFP/Getty Images)Filipino firefighters walk on the roof of a house as a huge fire rages through a slum area in Manila on April 20, 2014. Almost 1,000 families were affected by the fire according to local media reports. (NOEL CELISNOEL CELIS/AFP/Getty Images)A man smokes a joint at the Fill the Hill marijuana rally on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Sunday, April 20, 2014. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang)Big Day to celebrate as thousand gathered in front of Vancouver Art Gallery to take part in the 420 Marijuana smoke in here in Vancouver on April 20, 2014. (Mark van Manen/PNG Staff Photographer) Big Day to celebrate as thousand gathered in front of Vancouver Art Gallery to take part in the 420 Marijuana smoke in here in Vancouver on April 20, 2014. (Mark van Manen/PNG Staff Photographer) A participant displays her outfit during the annual Easter Parade on Fifth Avenue in New York on April 20, 2014. The annual parade has been a New York tradition since the late 1880s, during which participants gather, donning all mode of spring finery and hat, from wacky to traditional. (EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images)Dressed for the occasion, Michelle White poses for photographs as she makes her way along New York's Fifth Avenue during the Easter Parade, Sunday, April 20, 2014. (AP Photo/Tina Fineberg) A participant displays her outfit during the annual Easter Parade on Fifth Avenue in New York on April 20, 2014.(EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images)Participants display their outfits during the annual Easter Parade on Fifth Avenue in New York on April 20, 2014. The annual parade has been a New York tradition since the late 1880s, during which participants gather, donning all mode of spring finery and hat, from wacky to traditional. (EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images)Guards attend Easter Mass held by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square on April 20, 2014 in Vatican City, Vatican. Pope Francis is attending the Holy Week for his second time as a Pontiff. (Photo by Franco Origlia/Getty Images) Members of the national police confront demonstrators during a protest against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas on April 20, 2014. Hundreds of Venezuelans marched in Caracas on Easter Sunday for the "resurrection of democracy" in a new day of protests against the government of Nicolas Maduro, which began more than two months ago and have a balance of 41 dead. ". (JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)Members of the national police confront demonstrators during a protest against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas on April 20, 2014. ". (JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images)Member of the national police confront demonstrators during a protest against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas on April 20, 2014. (FEDERICO PARRA/AFP/Getty Images)A bull falls upside down in front of Spanish bullfighter Antonio Nazare during a bullfight on the occasion of Easter Sunday at Las Ventas bullring in Madrid, central Spain, 20 April 2014. (EPA/CHEMA MOYA)A Thai villager paddles boat as he fishing at lake in Udon Thani province on April 4, 2014.( PORNCHAI KITTIWONGSAKUL/AFP/Getty Images)Relatives of victims of the South Korean ferry 'Sewol' sit before the sea at Jindo harbour on April 20, 2014. Divers began to locate bodies on April 19 inside a submerged South Korean ferry as the detained captain defended his decision to delay evacuation of the ship when it capsized nearly four days ago with 476 people on board. (ED JONESED JONES/AFP/Getty Images)Ivorians bathe in a polluted body of water that flows through the Ebrie Lagoon in Abidjan on April 19, 2014. The level of pollution in the lagoon has increased in recent years due to the discharge of sewage from nearby urban areas. (SIA KAMBOU/AFP/Getty Images)Gallery: Queen Elizabeth observes Easter with her familyhttp://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-queen-elizabeth-observes-easter-with-her-family
http://o.canada.com/news/world/gallery-queen-elizabeth-observes-easter-with-her-family#commentsMon, 21 Apr 2014 00:57:16 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=432005]]>While the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George were celebrating Easter in Sydney, Australia, the rest of the royal family gathered at Windsor Castle to mark the day with Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh. The family gathered for a special Easter Sunday service at St. George’s Chapel, located on the grounds of Windsor Castle.

(Royal watchers will recall the Chapel was the site of the marriages of both Prince Charles to Camilla Parker Bowles in 2005 and Prince Edward to Sophie Rhys-Jones in 1999.)

“Her Majesty wore an elegant light blue coat and matching hat for the ceremony, which took place at St. George’s Chapel in the grounds of the Berkshire-based royal residence,” reported the Daily Mail. “Also at the service were the Duke of Edinburgh, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, Princess Anne and Princess Eugenie.”

“Locked in a safe in Sydney’s St. Philip’s Church, the Fleet Bible has been signed by every monarch to visit Australia in the past century,” ABC News explained. “Brought out in the First Fleet, the large leather-bound Bible is inscribed with the address of Botany Bay. It is believed to have been used by chaplain Richard Johnson to conduct the first Christian service in the colony.”

The Prayer Book as seen following the official signing. Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images.

The First Fleet Bible as seen following the official signing by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images

Among those who have signed the Bible are Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, and the Duke and Duchess of York.

Australia’s Telegraph reported that nearly 1,000 people were waiting outside the cathedral for the royal couple to arrive but that “reflecting the serious religious nature of the ceremony, the royal couple entered St. Andrew’s Cathedral without stopping to greet the crowds waiting for them” though Kate did wave in their direction.

The royal couple walks out of St. Andrew’s Cathedral following Easter Sunday church services. Rick Rycroft, AP Photo.

Prince William and Kate walk with The Most Reverend Glenn Davies, Archbishop of Sydney, left, and The Very Reverend Phillip Jensen, Dean of Sydney, as they arrive at St. Andrew’s Cathedral for Easter Sunday church services. Rick Rycroft, AP Photo.

Kate arrives at St. Andrew’s Cathedral. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.

Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images.

Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images.

Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images.

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/world/prince-william-duchess-kate-celebrate-easter-sign-historic-bible-of-australia/feed0The Duke And Duchess Of Cambridge Tour Australia And New Zealand - Day 14rdunleyPrince William arrives at St. Andrew's Cathedral. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Kate wore an elegant grey ensemble.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Brendon Thorne, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Brendon Thorne, Getty ImagesKate signs the First Fleet Bible and Prayer Book following Easter Sunday Service. Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images.Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images.The Prayer Book as seen following the official signing. Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images.The First Fleet Bible as seen following the official signing by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty ImagesThe royal couple walks out of St. Andrew's Cathedral following Easter Sunday church services. Rick Rycroft, AP Photo.Prince William and Kate walk with The Most Reverend Glenn Davies, Archbishop of Sydney, left, and The Very Reverend Phillip Jensen, Dean of Sydney, as they arrive at St. Andrew's Cathedral for Easter Sunday church services. Rick Rycroft, AP Photo.Kate arrives at St. Andrew's Cathedral. Chris Jackson, Getty Images.Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images.Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images.Lisa Maree Williams, Pool/Getty Images.Why Aussies will embrace Prince William, Duchess Kate and Prince Georgehttp://o.canada.com/news/world/why-aussies-will-embrace-prince-william-duchess-kate-and-prince-george
http://o.canada.com/news/world/why-aussies-will-embrace-prince-william-duchess-kate-and-prince-george#commentsMon, 07 Apr 2014 13:34:11 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=423470]]>Back in the days when an Australian leader brazenly put his hand on the Queen’s back and a royal visit was dismissed by the media as “an image fading,” the so-called “captive republic” appeared on the verge of finally breaking free of the shackles of the British monarchy. But today’s Australians, it seems, have come to like their chains.

Fifteen years since the nation conducted a heated debate about the republic that ended with a bitterly fought constitutional referendum, the topic is greeted by a profound indifference. At last year’s federal election, a party representing republicans received just 2,997 votes — far less than that received by the pirate party, the sex party or a party for smokers’ rights. As around the world people conduct national struggles and vie for greater independence, Australians have been snuggling ever closer to their foreign head of state.

A poll in February found support for a republic was at 39 per cent — a 20-year low. The impending and eagerly awaited visit of Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who will spend almost three weeks in Australia and New Zealand with young Prince George, has generated intense interest and is likely to only further dent the republican cause.

It is a far cry from the Nineties, when Australia’s staunchly republican prime minister, Paul Keating, breached protocol during a royal visit in 1992. Labelled the “Lizard of Oz,” Keating was typically unapologetic and later claimed that he “rather liked the Queen,” adding: “I think she liked me. She always used to sit me next to her on the Britannia.”

Keating’s leadership, coupled with domestic troubles in the Royal family, sparked a resurgence in republican sentiment that ended with a referendum in 1999; though Australians voted against changing the constitution, partly because of in-fighting among the republican movement and a failure to produce a popular model for appointing a president. The defeat, overseen by monarchist prime minister John Howard, has been followed by a growing silence on the topic.

This long failure to end ties with the monarchy would probably have come as a surprise to the colonial settlers aboard the First Fleet, which landed in Sydney harbour in 1788, just 12 years after the American War of Independence. Many of settlers, according to historians, regarded independence as something of an inevitability. Likewise, as the colony moved towards the creation of a federal state on January 1 1901, many leading the charge were heavily influenced by the American founders and believed Australia’s declaration of nationhood marked a first step towards an independent republic.

Wisely, perhaps, the House of Windsor has remained largely silent, leaving Australians to either squabble among themselves or decide it is a fight not worth having. When Keating informed the Queen in 1993 that most Australians regarded the monarchy as an anachronism and that it had “drifted into obsolescence”, she replied that she would “respect the wishes of the Australian people.” But Keating’s fiery display of republicanism now seems something of a rather quaint anachronism.

Between 2007 and 2013, Australia was led by two Labor leaders, Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard, both of whom supported a republic but made it clear they would do little to bring about change. Last year, however, the country took a turn towards an embrace of the monarchy with the election of Tony Abbott, a London-born former Rhodes Scholar who led the monarchist movement during the peak of the debate in the mid-1990s.

During his swearing-in ceremony last September, Abbott broke with recent tradition and pledged allegiance to the Queen. He has since reintroduced the title of Queen’s Counsel for senior barristers and hung the Queen’s portrait in his office in Canberra. Last month, Abbott went a step further — and perhaps a step too far – by surprising his fellow cabinet members and reintroducing the titles of knight and dame for distinguished Australians. The decision was roundly mocked. Not because Australians oppose a return to the titles they abandoned almost 30 years ago, but because they would much prefer their elected leader to deal with more pressing affairs of state. James Curran, an Australian historian, described the restoration of these titles as “one of the most pompous, pretentious, nostalgic and self-indulgent prime ministerial decisions in a generation.”

“While there can be no doubt that even a younger generation of Australians have expressed a new-found regard and respect for the royal family… it cannot be so concluded that Abbott’s decision is in sync with public opinion,” he wrote in The Age. But while it is still possible that some staunch republican could one day guide a disinterested public to apparently unfettered freedom, any swift move could prove as politically fraught – and as subject to ridicule — as Abbott’s moves the other way. Meanwhile, as the nation readies for the hysteria that will accompany the Cambridges’ visit, the republicans’ struggle can only get harder.

The Daily Telegraph

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http://o.canada.com/news/photos-top-images-from-around-the-world-4#commentsFri, 04 Apr 2014 20:09:59 +0000http://o.canada.com/?p=422522]]>

Britain’s Prince Harry (l) sits on a swing with local school children from Gainsborough Primary school in Newham, as Mayor of London Boris Johnson (Background-L) looks on during a visit to the new Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, in London on April 4, 2014. (CHRIS HARRIS/AFP/Getty Images)

Hong Kong violist Andrew Ling holds a rare 1719 viola called the “Macdonald” by Antonio Stradivari during a preview at the Sotheby’s auction in Hong Kong Friday, April 4, 2014. A rare 1719 Stradivarius viola is expected to sell for more than US$45 million in a private sale by Sotheby’s. The auction house says that price would be a record for a musical instrument sold privately or at auction. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

A woman with a relative onboard the Malaysia Airlines plane, MH370 rests near candles in a prayer room in Beijing, China, Friday, April 4, 2014. Crews searching for the missing Malaysia Airlines jet launched a targeted underwater hunt on Friday for the plane’s black boxes along a stretch of remote ocean, with just days left before the devices’ batteries are expected to run out. Chinese characters for words of consolations are seen at top right. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

Chinese relatives of passengers on the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 waits for attending meeting at the entrance of a prayer room at the Metro Park Hotel in Beijing on April 4, 2014. The hunt for physical evidence that the Malaysia Airlines jet crashed in the Indian Ocean more than three weeks ago has turned up nothing, despite a massive operation involving seven countries and repeated sightings of suspected debris. (WANG ZHAO/AFP/Getty Images)

Indian girls walk to school early morning in the old quarters of New Delhi, India, Friday, April 4, 2014. India will hold national elections from April 7 to May 12, kicking off a vote that many observers see as the most important election in more than 30 years in the world’s largest democracy. (AP Photo/Tsering Topgyal)

Egyptian journalists mimic being handcuffed during a protest at the journalists syndicate in Cairo, Egypt, Friday, April 4, 2014. Dozens of of writers and photographers held a one-day strike calling for the security forces to protect journalists who cover protests and calling for their employers to provide them with protections when covering violent events. The strike came a week after a journalist was killed in Egypt, while covering clashes. (AP Photo/Amr Nabil)

An Afghan man shaves at a traditional public bathroom in the northwestern city of Herat on April 4, 2014, ahead of country’s third presidential election. Afghans will vote on April 5 in the country’s third presidential election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai, who has led the country since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. (BEHROUZ MEHRI/AFP/Getty Images)

US boxer Timothy Bradley warms up during a media workout at the Fortune Gym on April 3, 2014 in Hollywood, California, in advance of his upcoming WBO welterweight championship re-match against Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines on April 12th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. (JOE KLAMAR/AFP/Getty Images)

Ukrainian cadets of Higher Naval School react as they embrace with their friend who has decided to stay in education in the school during the ceremony of departure in Sevastopol on April 4, 2014. Some 120 cadets who refused to take Russian citizenship, left the school in Crimean city of Sevastopol to Ukraine. (Vasiliy BATANOV/AFP/Getty Images)

Young students cheer during a celebration to mark the anniversaries of the Organization of Cuban Pioneers and of the Union of Communist Youth at the Angela Landa elementary school in Old Havana, Cuba, Friday, April 4, 2014. Cuban schoolchildren are referred to as “pioneers,” and the organization was founded in 1961 to encourage the values of education and social responsibility among children and adolescents. (AP Photo/Franklin Reyes)

Indian climber and independent political candidate, Gaurav Sharma poses for a photograph on his way to filing his nomination papers for the Lok Sabha elections in Mumbai on April 4, 2014. Sharma, a former martial arts trainer for the Mumbai city police, has been nicknamed “The Indian Spiderman” for his penchant for scaling almost all the tall buildings in the city. India’s marathon nine-phase election kicks off April 7 and will end on May 12 when hundreds of millions will have cast their ballots. (INDRANIL MUKHERJEE/AFP/Getty Images)

GrubHub Inc. CEO Matthew Maloney, trailed by costume characters, walks the New York Stock Exchange trading floor before his company’s IPO begins trading, Friday, April 4, 2014. Investors sent shares of the online food ordering service up 51 percent to $39.20 in early trading in its stock market debut Friday. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)

A man walks through fallen debris from the earthquake ravaged Duty Free Zone of Iquique, in Iquique, Chile, Friday, April 4, 2014. Following a magnitude-8.2 earthquake early in the week, soldiers have kept a close watch on supermarkets and gas stations to prevent looting as many people continued to line up on Friday for gasoline, water and food. The city remained largely peaceful and no new major damage or casualties were reported from the continuing aftershocks that have rattled the sleep-deprived citizens of Chile’s north. (AP Photo/Luis Hidalgo)

Racegoers enjoy the party atmosphere of Ladies Day and dress to impress at the Aintree Grand National Festival meeting on April 4, 2014 in Aintree, England. Friday is traditionally Ladies day at the three-day meeting of the world famous Grand National Festival where fashion and dressing to impress is as important as the racing. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

Racegoers enjoy the party atmosphere of Ladies Day and dress to impress at the Aintree Grand National Festival meeting on April 4, 2014 in Aintree, England. Friday is traditionally Ladies day at the three-day meeting of the world famous Grand National Festival where fashion and dressing to impress is as important as the racing. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

Racegoers enjoy the party atmosphere of Ladies Day and dress to impress at the Aintree Grand National Festival meeting on April 4, 2014 in Aintree, England. Friday is traditionally Ladies day at the three-day meeting of the world famous Grand National Festival where fashion and dressing to impress is as important as the racing. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

South Korean Air Force’s T-50 jets aerobatic team Black Eagles demonstrate acrobatic flight in the sky over the nation’s southeastern region on April 4, 2014. (EPA/YONHAPNEWS)

An Indian farmer works to separate wheat from the chaff in Bhaitora village, about 65 kilometers (41 miles) east of Allahabad, India, Friday, April 4, 2014. Agriculture is the main source of livelihood for a majority of India’s population. (AP Photo/ Rajesh Kumar Singh)

Children attend a lesson in a school downtown Bangui on April 3, 2014. (MIGUEL MEDINA/AFP/Getty Images)

An Afghan villager carries election materials over his shoulders as he hikes back to his village along a country road high in the mountains of Shutul District in northern Afghanistan on April 4, 2014. Afghans will vote on April 5 in the country’s third presidential election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai, who has led the country since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. (SHAH MARAI/AFP/Getty Images)

A photo made available April 4, 2014 shows railway construction workers mounting the contact wires for the new ICE line across the Unstruttal bridge near Karsdorf, Germany, on April 3, 2014. The 123 kilometres stretch of the ICE highspeed link is expected to be put into operation by 2015 allowing the ICE to travel at a speed of up to 300 km per hour between the cities of Erfurt and Leipzig. Germany’s second longest railway bridge measures 2.7 km and is part of the 500 km long ICE railway link that connects Berlin with Nuremberg. The project is aimed at reducing train travelling time to around four hours between Berlin and Munich by 2017. Construction costs are estimated to amount to around 10 billion euros. (EPA/JAN WOITAS)

Paul Hunter walks his two Dogue de Bordeaux dogs next to the iconic Red Road flats on April 4, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland. Five of the six tower blocks are to be demolished, which will apparently take just 15 seconds, during the opening ceremony of the 2014 Commonwealth Games being held in the city on July 23, 2014. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

A Bahraini boy carried by his father, flashes the sign for victory, during a protest against the Formula One Grand Prix and the government in the village of Shakhurah, west of Manama, on April 4, 2014. AFP (MOHAMMED AL-SHAIKH/AFP/Getty Images)

A Syrian youth walks near smoke and flames rising from a vehicle in a damaged street following a reported airstrike by government forces on April 4, 2014 on the Shaar neighbourhood of the northern Syrian city of Aleppo. Elsewhere Syria’s army tanks and warplanes pounded besieged Mleiha east of Damascus Friday, as it pressed a campaign to take control of the opposition-held town, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. (BARAA AL-HALABI/AFP/Getty Images)

An Afghan Sunni Muslim woman attends Friday prayers at Jamee mosque in the northwestern city of Herat on April 4, 2014, on the eve of the country’s third presidential election. (BEHROUZ MEHRI/AFP/Getty Images)

Chinese relatives of passengers on the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 pray after a meeting in a pray room at the Metro Park Hotel in Beijing on April 4, 2014. The hunt for physical evidence that the Malaysia Airlines jet crashed in the Indian Ocean more than three weeks ago has turned up nothing, despite a massive operation involving seven countries and repeated sightings of suspected debris. (WANG ZHAO/AFP/Getty Images)

]]>http://o.canada.com/news/photos-top-images-from-around-the-world-4/feed0BAHRAIN-POLITICS-UNREST-DEMOpostmedianews1Britain's Prince Harry (l) sits on a swing with local school children from Gainsborough Primary school in Newham, as Mayor of London Boris Johnson (Background-L) looks on during a visit to the new Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, in London on April 4, 2014. (CHRIS HARRIS/AFP/Getty Images)Hong Kong violist Andrew Ling holds a rare 1719 viola called the "Macdonald" by Antonio Stradivari during a preview at the Sotheby's auction in Hong Kong Friday, April 4, 2014. A rare 1719 Stradivarius viola is expected to sell for more than US$45 million in a private sale by Sotheby's. The auction house says that price would be a record for a musical instrument sold privately or at auction. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)A woman with a relative onboard the Malaysia Airlines plane, MH370 rests near candles in a prayer room in Beijing, China, Friday, April 4, 2014. Crews searching for the missing Malaysia Airlines jet launched a targeted underwater hunt on Friday for the plane's black boxes along a stretch of remote ocean, with just days left before the devices' batteries are expected to run out. Chinese characters for words of consolations are seen at top right. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)Chinese relatives of passengers on the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 waits for attending meeting at the entrance of a prayer room at the Metro Park Hotel in Beijing on April 4, 2014. The hunt for physical evidence that the Malaysia Airlines jet crashed in the Indian Ocean more than three weeks ago has turned up nothing, despite a massive operation involving seven countries and repeated sightings of suspected debris. (WANG ZHAO/AFP/Getty Images)Indian girls walk to school early morning in the old quarters of New Delhi, India, Friday, April 4, 2014. India will hold national elections from April 7 to May 12, kicking off a vote that many observers see as the most important election in more than 30 years in the world's largest democracy. (AP Photo/Tsering Topgyal)Egyptian journalists mimic being handcuffed during a protest at the journalists syndicate in Cairo, Egypt, Friday, April 4, 2014. Dozens of of writers and photographers held a one-day strike calling for the security forces to protect journalists who cover protests and calling for their employers to provide them with protections when covering violent events. The strike came a week after a journalist was killed in Egypt, while covering clashes. (AP Photo/Amr Nabil) An Afghan man shaves at a traditional public bathroom in the northwestern city of Herat on April 4, 2014, ahead of country's third presidential election. Afghans will vote on April 5 in the country's third presidential election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai, who has led the country since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. (BEHROUZ MEHRI/AFP/Getty Images)US boxer Timothy Bradley warms up during a media workout at the Fortune Gym on April 3, 2014 in Hollywood, California, in advance of his upcoming WBO welterweight championship re-match against Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines on April 12th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. (JOE KLAMAR/AFP/Getty Images)Ukrainian cadets of Higher Naval School react as they embrace with their friend who has decided to stay in education in the school during the ceremony of departure in Sevastopol on April 4, 2014. Some 120 cadets who refused to take Russian citizenship, left the school in Crimean city of Sevastopol to Ukraine. (Vasiliy BATANOV/AFP/Getty Images)Young students cheer during a celebration to mark the anniversaries of the Organization of Cuban Pioneers and of the Union of Communist Youth at the Angela Landa elementary school in Old Havana, Cuba, Friday, April 4, 2014. Cuban schoolchildren are referred to as "pioneers," and the organization was founded in 1961 to encourage the values of education and social responsibility among children and adolescents. (AP Photo/Franklin Reyes) Indian climber and independent political candidate, Gaurav Sharma poses for a photograph on his way to filing his nomination papers for the Lok Sabha elections in Mumbai on April 4, 2014. Sharma, a former martial arts trainer for the Mumbai city police, has been nicknamed "The Indian Spiderman" for his penchant for scaling almost all the tall buildings in the city. India's marathon nine-phase election kicks off April 7 and will end on May 12 when hundreds of millions will have cast their ballots. (INDRANIL MUKHERJEE/AFP/Getty Images)GrubHub Inc. CEO Matthew Maloney, trailed by costume characters, walks the New York Stock Exchange trading floor before his company's IPO begins trading, Friday, April 4, 2014. Investors sent shares of the online food ordering service up 51 percent to $39.20 in early trading in its stock market debut Friday. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)A man walks through fallen debris from the earthquake ravaged Duty Free Zone of Iquique, in Iquique, Chile, Friday, April 4, 2014. Following a magnitude-8.2 earthquake early in the week, soldiers have kept a close watch on supermarkets and gas stations to prevent looting as many people continued to line up on Friday for gasoline, water and food. The city remained largely peaceful and no new major damage or casualties were reported from the continuing aftershocks that have rattled the sleep-deprived citizens of Chile's north. (AP Photo/Luis Hidalgo) Racegoers enjoy the party atmosphere of Ladies Day and dress to impress at the Aintree Grand National Festival meeting on April 4, 2014 in Aintree, England. Friday is traditionally Ladies day at the three-day meeting of the world famous Grand National Festival where fashion and dressing to impress is as important as the racing. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)Racegoers enjoy the party atmosphere of Ladies Day and dress to impress at the Aintree Grand National Festival meeting on April 4, 2014 in Aintree, England. Friday is traditionally Ladies day at the three-day meeting of the world famous Grand National Festival where fashion and dressing to impress is as important as the racing. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images) Racegoers enjoy the party atmosphere of Ladies Day and dress to impress at the Aintree Grand National Festival meeting on April 4, 2014 in Aintree, England. Friday is traditionally Ladies day at the three-day meeting of the world famous Grand National Festival where fashion and dressing to impress is as important as the racing. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)South Korean Air Force's T-50 jets aerobatic team Black Eagles demonstrate acrobatic flight in the sky over the nation's southeastern region on April 4, 2014. (EPA/YONHAPNEWS) An Indian farmer works to separate wheat from the chaff in Bhaitora village, about 65 kilometers (41 miles) east of Allahabad, India, Friday, April 4, 2014. Agriculture is the main source of livelihood for a majority of India's population. (AP Photo/ Rajesh Kumar Singh) Children attend a lesson in a school downtown Bangui on April 3, 2014. (MIGUEL MEDINA/AFP/Getty Images)An Afghan villager carries election materials over his shoulders as he hikes back to his village along a country road high in the mountains of Shutul District in northern Afghanistan on April 4, 2014. Afghans will vote on April 5 in the country's third presidential election to choose a successor to Hamid Karzai, who has led the country since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. (SHAH MARAI/AFP/Getty Images)A photo made available April 4, 2014 shows railway construction workers mounting the contact wires for the new ICE line across the Unstruttal bridge near Karsdorf, Germany, on April 3, 2014. The 123 kilometres stretch of the ICE highspeed link is expected to be put into operation by 2015 allowing the ICE to travel at a speed of up to 300 km per hour between the cities of Erfurt and Leipzig. Germany's second longest railway bridge measures 2.7 km and is part of the 500 km long ICE railway link that connects Berlin with Nuremberg. The project is aimed at reducing train travelling time to around four hours between Berlin and Munich by 2017. Construction costs are estimated to amount to around 10 billion euros. (EPA/JAN WOITAS)Paul Hunter walks his two Dogue de Bordeaux dogs next to the iconic Red Road flats on April 4, 2014 in Glasgow, Scotland. Five of the six tower blocks are to be demolished, which will apparently take just 15 seconds, during the opening ceremony of the 2014 Commonwealth Games being held in the city on July 23, 2014. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)A Bahraini boy carried by his father, flashes the sign for victory, during a protest against the Formula One Grand Prix and the government in the village of Shakhurah, west of Manama, on April 4, 2014. AFP (MOHAMMED AL-SHAIKH/AFP/Getty Images)A Syrian youth walks near smoke and flames rising from a vehicle in a damaged street following a reported airstrike by government forces on April 4, 2014 on the Shaar neighbourhood of the northern Syrian city of Aleppo. Elsewhere Syria's army tanks and warplanes pounded besieged Mleiha east of Damascus Friday, as it pressed a campaign to take control of the opposition-held town, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. (BARAA AL-HALABI/AFP/Getty Images)An Afghan Sunni Muslim woman attends Friday prayers at Jamee mosque in the northwestern city of Herat on April 4, 2014, on the eve of the country's third presidential election. (BEHROUZ MEHRI/AFP/Getty Images)Chinese relatives of passengers on the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 pray after a meeting in a pray room at the Metro Park Hotel in Beijing on April 4, 2014. The hunt for physical evidence that the Malaysia Airlines jet crashed in the Indian Ocean more than three weeks ago has turned up nothing, despite a massive operation involving seven countries and repeated sightings of suspected debris. (WANG ZHAO/AFP/Getty Images)